Name: Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: British/Comfort Food
Ingredients: 300g chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces; 2 medium courgettes (zucchini), finely chopped; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp butter or olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), chopped; Optional: 50g grated cheese (mature cheddar or feta recommended); 1 sheet ready-rolled shortcrust pastry (or wholemeal/wholegrain pastry as variation); 1 beaten egg or milk, for brushing

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If you’re craving a new comfort food that hits all the right notes, look no further than our Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties. These savory pockets are packed with tender chicken and sweet, caramelized courgettes that create a perfect balance of flavors. Not only delicious but surprisingly simple to make, these pasties combine flaky pastry with a warm, jammy filling that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties offer a cozy, homemade delight that’s sure to become a favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Satisfying: This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that deliver big on flavor without fuss.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of jammy courgettes pairs beautifully with savory chicken for a mouthwatering combo.
Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special gathering, these pasties fit the bill perfectly.
Flaky Pastry Delight: Crispy, buttery pastry encases the filling, creating the perfect texture contrast.
Customizable and Versatile: You can easily tweak the filling to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties starts with simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in the final taste and texture. From the tender chicken bits to the sweet-savoury courgettes and flaky pastry, every component is essential.

Chicken breast or thighs: Provides juicy, tender protein for the hearty filling.
Courgettes (zucchini): When cooked low and slow, these become soft and sweet, adding that jammy quality.
Onion and garlic: Aromatics that build depth and lift the overall flavor profile.
Butter or olive oil: For sautéing ingredients and keeping the filling rich and moist.
Ready-rolled shortcrust pastry: Ensures a flaky, golden outer shell with minimal effort.
Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley): Add freshness and a hint of garden-fresh brightness.
Salt and pepper: To bring out all the natural flavors beautifully.
Optional cheese: A handful of grated cheese adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Variations for Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties

One of the best parts about making Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties is how easy it is to customize them. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs, using different veggies, or packing in more flavor, feel free to experiment.

Swap the chicken: Use shredded turkey or even a plant-based protein for a twist.
Veggie boost: Add diced red peppers or mushrooms to deepen the filling’s texture.
Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra warmth.
Dairy-free option: Replace butter with coconut oil and skip cheese to keep it vegan-friendly.
Wholemeal pastry: Switch to wholegrain pastry for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.

Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties Made Easy

How to Make Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by finely chopping your courgettes and gently cooking them over medium-low heat in a little butter or olive oil. Stir occasionally until they become soft and start to caramelize, developing that lovely jammy sweetness. Meanwhile, sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Dice chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the pan with courgettes and aromatics. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Let the mixture cool to room temperature to make filling easier to handle.

Step 3: Prepare the Pastry

Roll out the shortcrust pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into even circles or squares, depending on your preferred pasty shape. Keep the pastry chilled until ready to fill to maintain flakiness.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasties

Place a generous spoonful of the chicken and jammy courgette mixture onto one half of each pastry piece. Add a sprinkle of cheese if you like. Fold over the pastry and press edges firmly with a fork to seal, ensuring no filling escapes during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush each pasty with a little beaten egg or milk to encourage a beautiful golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is crisp and golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties

Don’t overfill: Leaving enough pastry around the edges ensures a proper seal and prevents leaks.
Cool the filling: Allows for easier handling and prevents the pastry from becoming soggy.
Use fresh herbs: They brighten the filling and enhance the overall taste.
Chill the pastry: Keeps it firm so you get crispy, flaky layers after baking.
Preheat the oven fully: Ensures even cooking and the perfect golden crust every time.

How to Serve Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties

Garnishes

Top your Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties with freshly chopped parsley or a light drizzle of tangy yogurt sauce to add brightness and complement the rich filling.

Side Dishes

These pasties pair beautifully with fresh green salads, crunchy slaws, or a bowl of hearty soup for a well-rounded meal that warms both tummy and soul.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve them as party finger food by cutting into small rectangular bites or present them alongside a dip like chutney or mustard for an extra flavor kick that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste just as satisfying warmed up the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the pasties uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat pasties in an oven or toaster oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crisp pastry. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the flaky texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use mature cheese in Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties?

Absolutely! Mature cheddar or even a tangy feta works wonderfully to enhance the filling’s flavors.

Are these pasties suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes, although freezing before baking maintains the best texture. If freezing after baking, reheat carefully to keep pastry crisp.

Can I make these pasties gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pastry and ensure all other ingredients meet gluten-free criteria.

What type of courgettes is best to use?

Fresh, medium-sized courgettes work best for achieving that soft, jammy texture without excess moisture.

How long do Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties take to bake?

Typically, they bake in about 20-25 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until golden and crispy.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties are a delightful twist on traditional pasties, offering a warm, comforting meal made easy in your own kitchen. With their perfect balance of savory chicken and sweet courgettes wrapped in crispy pastry, they’re hard to resist. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start making these irresistible pasties today!