Cheesy chicken vegetable pockets are a delicious, savory treat that combines the goodness of chicken, vegetables, and melted cheese all wrapped up in a crispy, golden pocket. Perfect for a snack, lunch, or even a light dinner, these pockets are easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn), cooked
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup cold water
For Frying:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, shredded mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Season: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Add Butter: Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Pockets
- Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into rectangles (approximately 4×6 inches).
- Fill Pockets: Place a spoonful of the chicken and vegetable filling onto one half of each rectangle, leaving a border around the edges.
- Seal Pockets: Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal. Make sure the edges are sealed well to prevent filling from leaking out during frying.
Step 4: Fry the Pockets
- Coat Pockets: Dip each pocket into the beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry Pockets: Fry the pockets in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pockets from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve: Serve the cheesy chicken vegetable pockets warm, with your favorite dipping sauces.
Cooking Tips:
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. You can also use rotisserie chicken for added flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use any vegetables you like or have on hand. Bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms are great additions.
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella is a great melting cheese, you can experiment with other types like cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Variations:
- Spicy Pockets: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Dough: Mix some dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme into the dough for added flavor.
- Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, bake the pockets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
FAQs:
Can I freeze these pockets? Yes, you can freeze the assembled pockets before frying. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.
What dipping sauces go well with these pockets? Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a simple garlic aioli are all great choices for dipping these cheesy chicken vegetable pockets.
Can I make these pockets gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to adjust the amount of water if needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
Cheesy chicken vegetable pockets are a versatile and delicious snack or meal option that you can easily customize to your taste. Whether you fry or bake them, these pockets will be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauces for a delightful and satisfying treat.
