Chicken Phyllo Triangles
Whenever I think of comfort food, Chicken Phyllo Triangles come to mind. I remember the first time I made them; the kitchen was filled with the aroma of melting butter and sautéed chicken, and I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of serving them to my family. These flaky, golden pastries are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. I love how they come together, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful experience. Each bite is a perfect blend of textures, from the crispy phyllo to the tender chicken filling, making them a favorite at any gathering. Whether it’s a bustling weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend snack, Chicken Phyllo Triangles always bring joy to the table. And let me tell you, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike!
Recipe Snapshot
50 mins
30 mins
20 mins
Medium
180 kcal
10 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10 g
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet, Oven
What We Adore About This Chicken Phyllo Triangles
Flaky Perfection
There’s something magical about phyllo pastry. When baked, it turns golden brown and crispy, offering a satisfying crunch that complements the savory filling. You’ll find yourself reaching for just one more Chicken Phyllo Triangle as the layers flake apart.
A Versatile Filling
While the traditional filling is delicious, I love how adaptable this recipe is. You can mix and match ingredients to suit your taste. Think of adding spinach for a twist or swapping feta with ricotta. The base recipe is a blank canvas waiting for your culinary creativity.
Great for Any Occasion
Hosting a gathering? These Chicken Phyllo Triangles are the perfect appetizer or snack. They’re easy to grab and eat, making them ideal for parties or family gatherings. Plus, you can make them ahead and pop them in the oven when guests arrive.
Easy to Prepare
Despite their fancy appearance, these triangles are surprisingly easy to make. The process involves simple steps that anyone can follow, making it a great recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. You’ll impress everyone without spending all day in the kitchen.
Freezes Well
If you want to prepare in advance, these Chicken Phyllo Triangles freeze beautifully. Just make a batch, freeze them before baking, and then bake from frozen whenever you have a craving. It makes for a quick and satisfying meal in no time!
Family Favorite
I can’t tell you how many times my kids have requested these for dinner. They love the crunchy exterior, and the filling is flavorful yet mild enough for even the pickiest eaters. It’s a recipe that brings the family together around the table.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Phyllo Triangles
Creating the perfect Chicken Phyllo Triangles relies on a harmonious blend of ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, contributing to the dish’s delightful flavor and texture. From the crispy layers of phyllo pastry to the savory filling of tender chicken and feta cheese, understanding these ingredients will elevate your cooking experience.
- 14 sheets phyllo pastry – The star of the dish, these delicate sheets create the flaky texture we adore.
- 1 chicken breast (boneless, skinless, cut into very small pieces) – A lean protein that adds heartiness to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Used for sautéing and brushing the phyllo, it adds richness and flavor.
- ½ onion (chopped) – This aromatic ingredient enhances the filling with its savory sweetness.
- ½ cup corn kernels – Adds a sweet crunch that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- ½ red bell pepper (chopped) – Provides color and a slight sweetness to the filling.
- 3 green onions (chopped) – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
- 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled) – The creamy, tangy element that ties the filling together.
- ¼ cup butter (melted) – Essential for brushing the phyllo to ensure it crisps up beautifully during baking.
The Process for Making Chicken Phyllo Triangles
Making Chicken Phyllo Triangles is a delightful task that brings the kitchen to life. You’ll love how the simple steps unfold into a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. Let’s dive into the process step by step!
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Start by preheating your oven to 375 F degrees. This will ensure it’s hot enough to give the pastry that lovely golden color as it bakes.
In a skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the onion and chicken pieces to the skillet. Sauté them until the chicken is fully cooked, which means there’s no pink left. The onions should be soft and translucent, filling the kitchen with their inviting aroma.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; this step adds a depth of flavor. Next, stir in the red bell pepper and corn kernels, cooking for a couple more minutes. At this point, the pepper should soften just a bit, creating a colorful and tasty filling.
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It’s time to remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the chicken mixture into a bowl and allow it to cool for a moment. Once it’s cooled slightly, fold in the feta cheese and green onions, mixing well until everything is combined.
Now comes the fun part with the phyllo dough. Unroll it and lay one sheet flat on your work surface. Make sure to cover the remaining phyllo sheets with a damp towel to keep them from drying out. Brush the top of the phyllo sheet with melted butter and place another sheet on top. This layering is what gives your triangles that amazing flakiness.
Using a pizza cutter, slice the layered phyllo sheets lengthwise into four long pieces, about 2 inches wide. This will create strips that you’ll use to form your triangles.
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Take a heaping tablespoon of the chicken mixture and place it near one corner of a phyllo strip. Fold the corner over the filling at an angle to form a triangle shape. Continue folding the triangle along the strip, moving towards the opposite end, just like folding a flag. Repeat this step until all phyllo and filling are used.
Once all your triangles are formed, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with more melted butter to enhance the golden color. Bake them for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the triangles are beautifully golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t over-brown!
Things Worth Knowing
- Phyllo Handling: Be gentle with phyllo pastry. It dries out quickly, so keep it covered with a damp cloth when you’re not working with it.
- Cooling Filling: Let the filling cool slightly before adding it to the phyllo. This prevents the pastry from becoming soggy.
- Baking: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to get the best texture on the phyllo.
- Freezing Tips: If freezing, lay the folded triangles on a baking sheet until they are firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage.
Recipe Variations about Chicken Phyllo Triangles
One of the best things about Chicken Phyllo Triangles is how customizable they are. You can play with different fillings and flavors to suit your taste. Here are some variations to inspire your creativity:
- Add Spinach: Mix in some fresh or frozen spinach with the chicken for a nutritious boost.
- Swap Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: For those who like a kick, add jalapeños or bell peppers to the filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Use only vegetables like mushrooms, cheese, and herbs for a delicious meat-free version.
- Herbs Galore: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten the flavors.
- Sweet Variations: For a dessert twist, use sweetened cream cheese and fruits like apples or cherries.
- Serving Style: Serve with sauces like tzatziki or marinara for dipping.
What Complements This Chicken Phyllo Triangles
- Salads: Pairing with a fresh salad, like Greek or Caesar, adds a refreshing contrast.
- Dips: Serve with flavorful dips like tzatziki or hummus to enhance the experience.
- Occasions: These triangles make a fantastic appetizer for parties, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations.
- Storage: Store leftover triangles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: They freeze well; just bake from frozen when you need a quick snack!
- Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with a light tomato salad, while in winter, pair with roasted vegetables.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Chicken Phyllo Triangles are not just delicious; they’re a fun and interactive way to enjoy your meals. With their flaky exterior and flavorful filling, they make for a perfect snack or appetizer. I encourage you to try making them at home. You might just find a new favorite recipe that brings joy to your family and friends!
Chicken Phyllo Triangles
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
- Skillet
- Chef's Knife
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 14 sheets phyllo pastry
- 1 breast chicken (boneless, skinless, cut into very small pieces)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ onion chopped
- ½ cup corn kernels
- ½ red bell pepper chopped
- 3 green onions chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- ¼ cup butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 F degrees.
- Melt the 2 tbsp of butter in a skillet. Add onion and chicken and cook until the chicken is no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper. Add bell pepper and corn and continue cooking for a couple more minutes just until pepper softens a bit. Empty the chicken mixture into a bowl and set aside until it cools a bit.
- Add feta cheese and green onions and stir.
- For handling the phyllo dough, unroll it and lay one sheet flat on your work surface. For the remaining phyllo dough, cover it with a damp towel, so it won’t dry out. Brush the sheet with melted butter and add another phyllo sheet over the first one.
- Using a pizza cutter, cut the sheets lengthwise into 4 long pieces, about 2 inch strips. Place a heaping tbsp of the chicken mixture near 1 corner of the phyllo strip. Fold the end at an angle over the filling to form a triangle. Continue to fold the triangle along the strip until you reach the end, like folding a flag. Repeat this with the remaining phyllo and filling.
- Place your spanakopita triangles on your baking sheets and brush with butter. Bake them for 20 to 30 minutes until the triangles are golden brown and crisp.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover triangles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: They freeze well; just bake from frozen when you need a quick snack!
- Variations: Add spinach or swap cheeses for different flavors.
