Delicious Chicken Vol Au Vents: A Gourmet Recipe To Impress Your Guests

Delicious Chicken Vol Au Vents: A Gourmet Recipe To Impress Your Guests

Vol au vent, a classic French pastry dish, is known for its light, flaky texture and ability to be filled with a variety of delectable fillings. In this blog post, we will explore how to create a delicious chicken vol au vent that is sure to impress your guests. This gourmet recipe combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce, all encased in a delicate puff pastry shell. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat your family, this dish is a fantastic choice. 🍽️

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What is Vol Au Vent? 🥐

Vol au vent translates to "flight in the wind," a term that evokes the lightness of this pastry. Traditionally made from puff pastry, these little shells are hollow and can be filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings. They are often served as appetizers or as a light main dish.

In this recipe, we will focus on a chicken filling, but feel free to experiment with other ingredients like mushrooms, seafood, or vegetables.

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Ingredients 🥚

To create delicious chicken vol au vents, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Puff Pastry Shells:

• 500g puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Flour for dusting

For the Chicken Filling:

• 300g cooked chicken breast (diced)
• 200ml cream
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 100g mushrooms (sliced)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional Ingredients:

• Cheese (grated, for an extra creamy filling)
• Thyme or other herbs for added flavor

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Step-by-Step Instructions 📝

Preparing the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 3mm thick.
3. Cut the Pastry: Use a round cutter to cut out circles of pastry. You'll need two circles for each vol au vent: one for the base and one for the top. Make smaller circles to create the rim.
4. Assemble the Shells: Place the larger circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a little water to help the smaller circles stick to the larger ones, forming a border. Make sure not to cut all the way through, as you want a hollow center.
5. Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden.

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Making the Chicken Filling

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they are tender and golden.
3. Mix in the Chicken: Stir in the diced cooked chicken, followed by the cream. Season with salt and pepper, and add any optional herbs you like. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Final Touches: If you are using cheese, stir it in until melted and well combined.

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Assembling the Vol Au Vents 🍴

1. Fill the Shells: Once the pastry shells are baked and cooled slightly, carefully remove the center of each one. You can do this gently with a small knife.
2. Add the Filling: Spoon the creamy chicken filling into each vol au vent shell, generously filling them to the top.
3. Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and added flavor.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Assembling+Vol+Au+Vent" alt="Assembling Vol Au Vents" /> </div>

Serving Suggestions 🍷

Vol au vents are best served warm and can be enjoyed as a main dish or a fancy appetizer. Pair them with a fresh salad and a glass of white wine to enhance the dining experience. Here are some serving ideas:

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Important Notes 📌

“For the best results, make sure your pastry is kept chilled before baking. Warm pastry can lose its flakiness. Always monitor the baking time to avoid over-browning.”

Variations and Customizations 🌈

This basic chicken vol au vent recipe can be customized in numerous ways. Here are a few ideas:

1. Seafood Filling: Swap the chicken for shrimp or crab for a delightful seafood version.
2. Vegetarian Option: Use a mixture of sautéed seasonal vegetables and cheese for a vegetarian treat.
3. Herb Infusion: Incorporate different herbs such as dill or basil into your filling for added flavor.

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Creating a delicious chicken vol au vent is an excellent way to impress your guests with your culinary skills. This gourmet dish not only looks stunning but also offers a rich and satisfying taste experience. Whether it's for a special occasion or a cozy family meal, chicken vol au vents are a winning choice that will leave everyone asking for the recipe! Enjoy your culinary adventure! 🍽️✨