If you’re looking for a savory pastry that’s delicious and easy to make, a Chicken and Cheese Jalousie might be the perfect recipe for you. A Jalousie is a traditional French pastry known for its flaky, golden crust and unique appearance. You create it by layering puff pastry in a way that resembles window blinds (hence the name “Jalousie,” which means “shutter” in French). This gives it a distinctive look that’s as appealing as it is tasty.
The combination of chicken and cheese makes this pastry even better. The tender chicken and gooey cheese inside a flaky pastry shell create an irresistible flavor. It’s the perfect dish for both a cozy meal and a dinner party.
What makes this Chicken and Cheese Jalousie so popular is the puff pastry. It’s a great shortcut for a light, flaky crust without the hassle of making dough from scratch. Store-bought puff pastry gives you the right texture and saves time. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe will impress without taking up too much time.
What Is a Chicken and Cheese Jalousie?
What is a Jalousie pastry?
A Jalousie pastry is a classic French treat made with thin layers of puff pastry folded into a unique, window-shutter-like design. This design helps distribute heat evenly during baking, ensuring a perfectly crisp, golden crust. The name “Jalousie” comes from the French word for “shutter,” reflecting its lattice-like structure.
Jalousies can be filled with both sweet and savory ingredients. Their versatility is one reason they remain popular today. They’re enjoyed as snacks or main dishes, depending on the filling.
While traditionally filled with fruit or almond paste, the savory version—like the Chicken and Cheese Jalousie—has grown in popularity due to its hearty filling and easy preparation with puff pastry.
Why Chicken and Cheese?
Chicken and cheese are a classic pairing in savory dishes. This combination works especially well in a Jalousie. Chicken breast provides a mild, juicy base for the filling, while cheese (like cheddar, mozzarella, or cream cheese) melts beautifully inside, creating a rich, creamy layer. The cheese binds the chicken together, creating a flavorful and cohesive filling.
The cheese’s richness complements the lightness of the puff pastry. This makes the dish satisfying without being too heavy. Plus, the combination of chicken and cheese ensures the Jalousie is both filling and delicious—perfect for a comforting meal or snack.
Alternative Fillings for Chicken and Cheese Jalousie
While Chicken and Cheese is a winning combination, the beauty of the Jalousie lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out the filling to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few alternatives:
- Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, and add ricotta or goat cheese for a creamy texture.
- Beef or pork filling: Ground beef or shredded pork also work wonderfully in a Jalousie, offering a heartier, meaty alternative to the chicken filling.
- Seafood twist: For a more luxurious filling, try adding shrimp or crab meat with a creamy cheese sauce to create a seafood-inspired Jalousie.
Each variation can be made with the same flaky puff pastry, making it a flexible recipe that can be adjusted to whatever ingredients you have on hand or prefer.
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken and Cheese Jalousie
Key ingredients you’ll need:
Making a Chicken and Cheese Jalousie requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which you may already have in your kitchen. Here’s a list of the essentials:
- Puff pastry: The key to a light and flaky Jalousie, puff pastry is the star ingredient. It’s readily available in most grocery stores, and you can use either fresh or frozen puff pastry.
- Chicken breast: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and shred easily. You can also use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Cheese: A combination of cheese varieties like cheddar, mozzarella, or even cream cheese works wonderfully. Cheddar gives a sharp, rich flavor, while mozzarella melts beautifully for that perfect gooey texture.
- Seasonings and herbs: Basic seasoning such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme or oregano will enhance the flavor of your filling.
Choosing the best cheese for the recipe:
When it comes to cheese, you want one that melts well and complements the chicken. Some of the best cheese options include:
- Cheddar: Offers a sharp and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the mildness of chicken.
- Mozzarella: A classic melty cheese that adds a gooey texture to the Jalousie.
- Cream cheese: For a creamy, smooth texture, cream cheese is a fantastic addition to the filling.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses depending on your preferences. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella provides the perfect balance of flavor and melt.
What’s the best type of chicken to use?
For the best results, chicken breast is the ideal choice because it’s lean, tender, and easy to cook. You can either grill or sauté the chicken breast, then shred it or cut it into small pieces for the filling. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is another great option—it’s already cooked, flavorful, and convenient. Just shred it and mix with the cheese for a quick and easy filling.
By using quality ingredients, your Chicken and Cheese Jalousie will have a delightful balance of flaky, cheesy, and savory flavors.
How to Prepare the Chicken and Cheese Filling
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
To start your Chicken and Cheese Jalousie, the first step is to cook the chicken. The method you choose depends on your preference, but here are a few options:
- Grilled Chicken: Grilling the chicken will add a smoky flavor and keep it juicy. Simply season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired spices (such as garlic powder or paprika) and grill for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding.
- Sautéed Chicken: For a quicker option, sauté the chicken in a pan with a little oil or butter. Season with salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs (like thyme or rosemary). Cook the chicken breasts over medium heat for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once cooked, dice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Shredded Chicken: If you’re using pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, simply shred the meat into small pieces with your hands or two forks. This option saves time and still gives you a flavorful filling.
Pro Tip: Make sure you cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to your filling to avoid any undercooked spots. If you’re using shredded chicken, season it well to infuse flavor into the pastry.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
For the perfect creamy and savory filling, it’s important to choose the right cheese. You can opt for one or a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella for its melting ability and cheddar for its sharp flavor.
- Blend the Cheese: In a bowl, combine your shredded cheese with any additional ingredients. If you want a creamier texture, consider adding a few tablespoons of cream cheese or ricotta. This will give the filling a luscious, smooth texture.
- Seasoning the Cheese: Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and fresh chopped herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for extra flavor. A pinch of salt and black pepper is also essential to elevate the taste. For an added kick, a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of mustard powder can give the cheese mixture a unique twist.
- Mixing It Together: Stir the cheese mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are well-combined. This ensures that every bite of your Jalousie has the perfect amount of creaminess and flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Filling
Once your chicken is cooked and shredded and your cheese mixture is prepared, it’s time to combine them.
- Mixing Chicken and Cheese: In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken to the cheese mixture. Gently stir to combine until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture. The result should be a moist and cohesive filling that will hold together inside the pastry.
- Taste Test: Before moving on to the next step, give the filling a taste. Adjust the seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavor.
This chicken and cheese filling is the heart of your Jalousie, and it’s important to make sure it’s both flavorful and moist to balance out the flaky, golden crust.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling Your Jalousie
Step 1: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Handling puff pastry is simple, but it requires a few tips to get the perfect texture:
- Thawing the Puff Pastry: If you’re using frozen puff pastry, let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. A too-cold dough will be difficult to roll out, while one that’s too warm may become sticky.
- Rolling Out the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. Roll the puff pastry into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. Be sure to keep the dough even and consistent. If it’s too thick, it might not crisp up properly.
- Cutting the Pastry: Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to cut the dough into rectangular or square shapes, depending on your Jalousie size. Ensure each pastry is large enough to fold over the filling and leave room for expansion during baking.
Step 2: Add the Filling
- Placing the Filling: Spoon the chicken and cheese mixture into the center of each pastry sheet. Be careful not to overfill—leave a half-inch border along the edges so the pastry can seal properly.
- Even Distribution: Spread the filling evenly across the surface, ensuring it covers the entire area. Don’t worry if the filling is slightly heaped—it will expand and puff as it bakes.
and Step 3: Seal and Shape the Jalousie
- Folding the Pastry: Carefully fold one side of the puff pastry over the filling to create a rectangle. Ensure the edges align neatly, securing the filling inside.
- Pinching the Edges: Press the edges of the pastry together using your fingers or a fork. This step keeps the filling from leaking out during baking and creates a crisp, sealed edge.
- Creating the Signature Design: Use a sharp knife to make a few slashes (about 2-3) on top of the pastry. These cuts allow steam to escape as it bakes, giving your Jalousie its classic shutter look.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Baking
- Egg Wash: To achieve a golden, glossy finish, lightly brush the top of the pastry with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a splash of water or milk). This step helps develop a beautiful color during baking.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the prepared Jalousie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy. The puff pastry will rise and become flaky, while the filling will warm and melt inside.
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Baking and Serving Your Chicken and Cheese Jalousie
Best baking temperature and time:
- The key to perfectly baked Chicken and Cheese Jalousies is baking them at the right temperature. 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving a crisp, golden exterior while ensuring that the inside is cooked through. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking the Jalousie toward the end to ensure that it has reached the perfect color and texture.
How to check for doneness:
- To check if your Jalousie is fully baked, gently tap the top of the pastry. If it sounds hollow, it’s a sign that the puff pastry is fully cooked. Additionally, the filling should be hot and gooey inside. You can carefully cut into one to check if the filling is melted and the pastry is crispy.
Serving ideas:
- Pair with a light salad: A fresh, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works wonderfully as a side dish for the rich, savory Jalousie.
- Dipping sauces: Consider serving your Jalousie with a side of garlic aioli or spicy mustard for extra flavor.
- Sides: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, make a great accompaniment.
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Conclusion : Chicken and Cheese Jalousie
Making Chicken and Cheese Jalousie is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, flaky pastry with a savory filling. The ease of using puff pastry combined with the irresistible filling of chicken and cheese makes this dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a special weekend meal, or a savory snack. We hope you’ll give this recipe a try and make it your own!
We’d love to hear about any creative twists you put on your Chicken and Cheese Jalousie. Share your variations or experiences in the comments or tag us on social media with your Jalousie creations!