There’s nothing quite like the enchanting scent of freshly baked pastry wafting through the kitchen, is there? Imagine the sheer delight of serving a dish that not only looks stunning but also harbors a creamy filling of rotisserie chicken, smoky bacon, and tender leeks all wrapped in a golden, flaky vol-au-vent. This Creamy Chicken Vol-au-Vent recipe is my secret weapon for impressing friends and family at gatherings.
What I love most is how effortlessly elegant this dish feels, despite its surprising simplicity. Using frozen puff pastry helps cut down on prep time, allowing you to stay focused on the flavors that make this appetizer shine. Whether it’s a festive gathering or an intimate dinner, this delicious vol-au-vent is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready to elevate your appetizer game? Let’s dive into making this delightful dish!
Why is Vol-au-Vent the Perfect Appetizer?
Unmatched Elegance: This dish brings restaurant-quality sophistication to your home table without the fuss.
Effortless Preparation: Using frozen puff pastry means you can whip up these delights in no time, leaving you with plenty of moments to savor with your guests.
Delectable Filling: The creamy combination of chicken, bacon, and leeks creates a flavor explosion that folks crave.
Versatile & Adaptable: Customize with your favorite ingredients, like swapping in shrimp for a sumptuous seafood option or crafting a vegetarian version with mushrooms.
Crowd Favorite: Its beautiful presentation and rich taste make it a guaranteed showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these vol-au-vents make every occasion feel special.
Vol-au-Vent Ingredients
For the Pastry
• Frozen Puff Pastry (17.30 ounces) – This forms the delightful flaky casing; ensure it’s fully thawed before using.
• Egg (1 large) – Used for the egg wash to achieve that golden-brown finish; any egg works just fine.
• Water (1 tablespoon) – Mix with egg for a shiny, beautiful wash.
For the Filling
• Bacon Strips (6) – Adds a smokiness and crunch; swap with pancetta for an interesting flavor.
• Leeks (2 medium, white parts only) – Provides a subtle onion flavor; shallots are a good substitute if needed.
• Sweet Yellow Pepper (1 medium, diced) – Offers sweetness and vibrant color; red or green peppers work too.
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken (1 cup) – Provides protein and convenience; any cooked chicken will do!
• Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened) – Creates a creamy filling; try Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon) & Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Essential for seasoning and can be adjusted to taste.
• Minced Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and color for garnish; you can omit or use dried if fresh is unavailable.
Now that you’ve got the ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from creating these luscious creamy chicken vol-au-vents that are bound to impress!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Vol-au-Vent
- Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prepares the stage for baking your delicious vol-au-vents.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out one sheet of the thawed puff pastry and cut out 6 circles, each about 3-1/4 inches wide. Repeat with the second sheet, cutting smaller circles for the tops.
- Assemble Pastry: Place the smaller rings on top of the larger pastry circles on your prepared baking sheet. This layering is essential for that classic vol-au-vent shape.
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture generously over the pastries to give them a beautiful, golden finish. Then, chill them for 15 minutes.
- Bake: Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they’ve puffed up and turned a lovely golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack for a few moments.
- Cook Bacon: While the pastries are baking, fry the bacon strips in a skillet until they’re crisp. Chop them into small pieces and set aside for later.
- Sauté Leeks and Pepper: Using the bacon drippings in the skillet, sauté the leeks and diced yellow pepper until tender and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Filling: Lower the heat and stir in the crispy bacon, shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well-blended and creamy. Then remove it from the heat.
- Hollow Pastry: Once the pastry shells have cooled a bit, create a well in each one by gently pressing down in the center. Fill them with your luscious chicken mixture. Garnish with minced parsley and serve immediately.
Optional: Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Vol-au-Vent are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by combining the sautéed leeks, peppers, bacon, shredded chicken, and cream cheese in an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator. The unfilled puff pastry can be made and chilled for up to 24 hours; simply roll, cut, and assemble before chilling. To maintain the pastry’s flaky texture, avoid filling until ready to serve. When you’re set to impress, just pop your pastries in the oven for 20-25 minutes, fill them with the prepared mixture, and enjoy effortlessly wonderful flavors with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Vol-au-Vent
- Room Temperature: Keep unfilled puff pastry shells at room temperature for up to 1 day. Store in a cool, dry place to maintain their flakiness.
- Fridge: Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using.
- Freezer: Unfilled pastries can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to freezer bags.
- Reheating: Reheat filled vol-au-vents in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.
Vol-au-Vent Variations & Substitutions
Let your creativity shine by customizing this vol-au-vent recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace the chicken and bacon with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, plant-based option. This variation brings a delicious earthiness to each bite.
- Seafood Delight: Swap out the chicken for succulent shrimp or lump crab meat, enhancing the flavor profile with a touch of the sea. The delicate seafood pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and flaky pastry.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an exciting heat that will elevate every mouthful. This twist is perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their foods.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or dill into the filling to brighten the flavor. This little touch can give the dish a garden-fresh essence that’s simply delightful.
- Cheesy Indulgence: Incorporate shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella into the mixture for a gooey, cheesy bite that everyone will crave. The melty goodness creates an irresistible creamy texture.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for an unexpected crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. This adds a delightful texture twist to your vol-au-vent.
- Smoked Flavor: Use smoked chicken or turkey in place of rotisserie chicken to impart a rich, smoky flavor to the filling. This subtle change transforms the whole dish into a comfort food classic.
- Colorful Veggies: Experiment with diced colorful bell peppers, zucchini, or even grated carrots for a nutritious boost and vibrant look. The added colors not only enhance the dish visually but also add layers of flavor.
Expert Tips for Perfect Vol-au-Vent
- Chill Your Ingredients: Keep the puff pastry and filling chilled before baking for maximum flakiness. Warm ingredients can lead to soggy pastry.
- Egg Wash Technique: Apply the egg wash gently using a pastry brush. Too much liquid can prevent the pastry from rising properly.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your pastries while baking. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for a golden-brown color to avoid burning.
- Use Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftover filling, it can be served in a bowl alongside your vol-au-vent. This adds a fun, interactive element to your appetizer!
- Experiment with Fillings: Adapt the creamy chicken filling to include seasonal veggies or different proteins. The versatility of vol-au-vent means you can customize it to your taste!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Vol-au-Vent?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful appetizer with complementary side dishes that excite the palate.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of crisp greens and vibrant vegetables adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the vol-au-vent.
- Roasted Baby Potatoes: Their crispy, golden skin and fluffy interior provide a comforting texture that contrasts beautifully with the flaky pastry.
- Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Bright, tender asparagus drizzled with lemon enhances the savory flavors while adding a splash of elegance to your plate.
- Charcuterie Board: A stunning arrangement of cured meats, cheeses, and olives creates a visually appealing spread that guests will love to nibble on between bites.
Pair any of these options with a crisp white wine or a light rosé to create a well-rounded and memorable meal. Enjoy a sweet dessert afterward, like mini fruit tarts, to round off your entertaining experience!
Creamy Chicken Vol-au-Vent Recipe FAQs
What type of puff pastry should I use for vol-au-vent?
I recommend using high-quality frozen puff pastry, as it provides the perfect flaky texture without the hassle of making it from scratch. Ensure that the pastry is fully thawed before use to achieve the best results.
How do I store leftover filling from the vol-au-vent?
Leftover filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it easy to enjoy again!
Can I freeze vol-au-vent pastries?
Absolutely! Unfilled puff pastry shells can be frozen for up to 2 months. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until fully frozen, then transfer them to freezer bags. Just remember that filled pastries are not recommended for freezing due to the cream content, which can change the texture.
What should I do if my puff pastry doesn’t rise properly?
If your puff pastry doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to warm ingredients or over-brushing the egg wash. Make sure your pastry and filling are chilled prior to baking, and apply the egg wash sparingly to allow for that beautiful puff during baking.
Is this recipe suitable for people with food allergies?
This creamy chicken vol-au-vent contains common allergens such as dairy (cream cheese) and gluten (puff pastry). For those with dietary restrictions, consider using lactose-free cream cheese and gluten-free puff pastry. Always check ingredient packaging for possible allergen cross-contamination.
How long do unfilled puff pastry shells last at room temperature?
Unfilled puff pastry shells can last at room temperature for up to 1 day. Store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their flakiness. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture!
Delightful Creamy Chicken Vol-au-Vent for Effortless Entertaining
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out one sheet of thawed puff pastry and cut out 6 circles, each about 3-1/4 inches wide. Repeat with the second sheet, cutting smaller circles for the tops.
- Layer the smaller rings on top of the larger pastry circles on the prepared baking sheet.
- Whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl. Brush this mixture generously over the pastries and chill for 15 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
- While pastries bake, fry bacon strips until crisp. Chop into small pieces and set aside.
- Sauté leeks and diced yellow pepper in bacon drippings until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Lower heat and stir in bacon, chicken, cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well-blended; remove from heat.
- Create a well in cooled pastry shells and fill with chicken mixture. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
