chicken ham and Cheese with Spinach

Flaky and delicious, chicken ham and cheese with spinach is the perfect dish for any occasion. These savory pastries combine tender chicken ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and fresh spinach, all wrapped in golden puff pastry. Whether served as a hearty main course or delightful appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress your family and guests. Enjoy the unique flavors and satisfying textures that make this dish a standout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty treats ready in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer for parties or a comforting snack for your family.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken ham, Swiss cheese, and spinach creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings; everyone will love these flaky pastries!
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or add other veggies.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having everything on hand will make the preparation process much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your pastries to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.
• Saucepan: Essential for creating your creamy filling without burning it.

Ingredients

Flaky pastry with chicken ham, Swiss cheese, and spinach for a tasty treat.

For the Pastry

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups cooked chicken ham, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 ½ cups Swiss cheese, grated and divided

For Garnish

• 1 large egg white, lightly beaten

How to Make chicken ham and Cheese with Spinach

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry Squares

Cut the puff pastry sheets into 5-inch (13cm) squares. Place them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and kosher salt, cooking for about 1 minute while stirring frequently.

Step 4: Add Milk

Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to boil.

Step 5: Thicken the Mixture

Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally until it thickens.

Step 6: Add Spinach

Add fresh spinach to the sauce. Cook for about 1 minute or until wilted.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Stir in diced chicken ham and 1 cup of grated Swiss cheese into the sauce until well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 8: Assemble Pastries

Arrange puff pastry squares evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Top each square with a heaping spoonful of the chicken ham and cheese mixture. Sprinkle with remaining grated cheese.

Step 9: Shape Pastries

Fold the corners of each puff pastry square toward the center to form smaller squares.

Step 10: Brush with Egg White

Brush the tops and sides of each pastry with lightly beaten egg white.

Step 11: Bake

Bake for about 18-20 minutes or until pastries are puffed up and golden brown. Enjoy!

How to Serve chicken ham and Cheese with Spinach

Serving chicken ham and cheese with spinach can elevate any meal occasion. These flaky pastries are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a hearty main dish.

Appetizer Delight

• Serve these pastries warm as an appetizer at your next gathering. Their flaky texture and savory filling will impress your guests.

Accompanied by Dips

• Pair with a tangy dipping sauce like garlic aioli or a zesty ranch dressing to enhance the flavors of the chicken ham and cheese mixture.

On a Bed of Greens

• Present the pastries on a fresh salad of mixed greens. This adds color and freshness to your plate while balancing the richness of the dish.

For a Cozy Lunch

• These pastries make an excellent choice for lunch. Serve alongside a cup of soup or chili for a comforting meal.

How to Perfect chicken ham and Cheese with Spinach

To ensure your chicken ham and cheese with spinach turns out deliciously every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality chicken ham will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Thaw puff pastry properly: Ensure the pastry is fully thawed for even baking. This helps achieve that perfect flaky texture.
• Don’t overfill: Be careful not to overload the pastry squares; otherwise, they may burst during baking.
• Brush with egg white: Brushing the tops with egg white gives the pastries a beautiful golden finish and enhances their crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for chicken ham and Cheese with Spinach

Pairing side dishes with chicken ham and cheese with spinach can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can provide freshness and balance against the richness of the pastries.
2. Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that complements the savory flavors while adding warmth to your meal.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition without overwhelming your palate.
4. Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor can be a perfect match for these savory pastries, adding additional comfort to your meal.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast in texture and taste, making it an ideal side option.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can be a satisfying accompaniment that everyone loves.
7. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad packed with veggies is not only healthy but also provides a hearty side dish.
8. Fruit Platter: A vibrant fruit platter adds sweetness and balances out the savory flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chicken ham and cheese with spinach, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your milk is at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps in your sauce.
• Overcooking the Spinach: Cook the spinach just until wilted. Overcooking it can make the filling soggy and reduce its vibrant color.
• Skipping Egg Wash: Don’t skip brushing the pastries with egg white. This step helps achieve a beautiful golden brown crust.
• Not Thawing Puff Pastry Properly: Make sure to thaw the puff pastry according to package directions. Improper thawing can affect its flakiness.
• Filling Pastries Too Much: Be careful not to overfill the pastries. Too much filling can cause them to burst during baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken ham and cheese with spinach in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing chicken ham and Cheese with Spinach

• Allow the pastries to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pastry tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating chicken ham and Cheese with Spinach

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pastries on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This method may result in a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover it, and warm them for about 5-8 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make chicken ham and cheese with spinach healthier?

You can use whole grain puff pastry or reduce the amount of cheese in the filling.

Can I customize the filling in my chicken ham and cheese with spinach?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or replace Swiss cheese with cheddar for a different flavor.

What can I serve with chicken ham and cheese with spinach?

These pastries pair well with a light salad or a side of fresh fruit for balance.

How long does it take to prepare chicken ham and cheese with spinach?

The total time is approximately 35 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking.

Final Thoughts

Chicken ham and cheese with spinach are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or cheeses. It’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course. Give it a try, and enjoy this flaky pastry treat!

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