These Chicken Hand Pies are a delightful handheld meal, filled with savory chicken, tender veggies, and aromatic spices, all wrapped in a buttery, golden puff pastry. They’re perfect for a family dinner, a picnic, or as a fun party snack!
The flaky crust and flavorful filling combine to make each bite a satisfying treat. Customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or add extra seasonings to match your taste. These hand pies can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion. They’re easy to make and perfect for a stress-free meal or snack!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced
- 1/4 cup onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the carrots and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until tender.
- Stir in the peas, shredded chicken, garlic powder, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares (about 4×4 inches each).
- Spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges to seal.
- Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush each with a light coating of beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 hand pies
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Hand Pies
Chicken Hand Pies are the perfect blend of flaky, buttery pastry and savory filling. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner idea or a fun snack for a gathering, these hand pies are a great choice. The combination of seasoned chicken, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs wrapped in a golden puff pastry makes them irresistible. They’re easy to prepare and bake, which is why this recipe is a staple in many households.
Versatility for Any Occasion
This recipe is easily customizable to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or use other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to mix up the flavor. You can also add a variety of herbs and spices to make the filling your own. Whether you’re serving them as a quick weeknight meal, taking them to a potluck, or packing them in lunchboxes, Chicken Hand Pies are sure to be a hit!
Make Ahead and Freeze for Later
One of the best things about these hand pies is that they can be made ahead of time. You can assemble them and freeze them before baking, so they’re ready to pop into the oven whenever you need a meal or snack. To freeze, simply place the uncooked hand pies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Perfect for All Ages
This recipe is family-friendly and works well for all ages. Kids love the portability and bite-sized nature of these hand pies, making them ideal for lunchboxes, playdates, or as a fun after-school treat. Adults will appreciate the savory filling and flaky crust, which makes them a great addition to any party or dinner table.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Hand Pies
- For a rich, golden finish, be sure to brush the pastry with an egg wash before baking. This gives the hand pies that beautiful, shiny look.
- If you want an extra crunch, try adding breadcrumbs to the filling for some texture.
- Make sure not to overstuff the pastry with filling to ensure that it bakes evenly and the edges seal properly.
- You can also top these hand pies with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or poppy seeds for an added touch of flavor.
With these tips in mind, your Chicken Hand Pies will turn out perfectly every time!
Why Chicken Hand Pies are a Must-Try
Chicken Hand Pies are a fantastic, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a convenient weeknight dinner, a comforting snack, or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, these hand pies deliver on taste and ease. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken with vegetables wrapped in a buttery, flaky puff pastry creates a balance of textures and flavors that will satisfy both adults and kids alike.
Flavorful, Customizable Filling
The filling for these hand pies is deliciously simple yet packed with flavor. You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken, making this recipe a great way to use up leftovers while creating a fresh, delicious meal. The peas and carrots add sweetness and texture, while the thyme, paprika, and garlic powder bring warmth and depth to the filling. You can also customize the vegetables—substitute peas with corn, or add mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Feel free to get creative with seasonings and herbs, adjusting them to suit your preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Freezing
One of the great things about these Chicken Hand Pies is their make-ahead and freeze-ahead potential. You can prepare and assemble the pies in advance, then freeze them for later. To do this, arrange the unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply cook them from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes them an excellent choice for busy weeknights, parties, or when you want a homemade meal on hand without the hassle.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Hand Pies can be served in so many ways. They’re great on their own as a snack or meal, but they also pair well with side dishes like a crisp salad or a simple vegetable soup. If you’re serving them for a party, consider offering a dipping sauce like a tangy honey mustard or a creamy ranch dressing for extra flavor. They also make great additions to a buffet table, served alongside other finger foods like meatballs, sliders, or cheese platters.
How to Store Chicken Hand Pies
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the pies on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This ensures that the pastry stays crisp and flaky while the filling remains warm and delicious.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Hand Pies
- For a golden, glossy finish, brush the top of the hand pies with a beaten egg or egg wash before baking. This will give them a beautiful sheen and enhance the crispness of the pastry.
- Avoid overfilling the hand pies, as this can make it difficult to seal the edges properly. A small spoonful of filling is all you need!
- If you’re not a fan of puff pastry, you can also use pie crust or phyllo dough as an alternative for a different texture.
Why Chicken Hand Pies are Great for Families
Chicken Hand Pies are a family-friendly dish that everyone will love. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and portable, making them perfect for lunches, picnics, or busy weeknights. Plus, they’re a great way to get your kids involved in the kitchen—let them help assemble the pies or brush the egg wash on top!
Whether you’re cooking for one or preparing a meal for a group, Chicken Hand Pies are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Their perfect balance of savory filling and flaky pastry will make them a hit at any table!
Conclusion
Chicken Hand Pies are a flavorful and versatile dish that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and savory spices wrapped in a golden puff pastry. Perfect for busy weeknights, lunch, or as a snack for gatherings, they are easy to make, customizable, and can be prepared in advance.
With endless filling options and the ability to freeze for later, these hand pies are both convenient and delicious. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, Chicken Hand Pies are sure to become a family favorite.