Description
These Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies are the perfect way to celebrate a cozy night in or make a special treat for Valentine’s Day! These golden, flaky hand pies are filled with a savory chicken and vegetable filling, making them the ideal balance of comfort and fun. Shaped like hearts, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones and are an easy, delicious handheld meal. The buttery, flaky crust combined with the creamy, flavorful filling will make these hand pies a favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sage
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3/4 cup cooked chicken, chopped into very small pieces
- 3/4 cup chicken stock
- 3/4 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
- 1 sheet puff pastry or pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the sage, salt, and pepper, then add the chopped cooked chicken and thawed mixed vegetables. Stir until well combined. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry or pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out heart-shaped pieces of dough (you should be able to cut two pieces per hand pie).
- Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and vegetable filling onto the center of one piece of dough.
- Place another heart-shaped piece of dough on top and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring the pies are securely closed.
- If desired, brush the tops of the pies with a beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.
- Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to use any leftover chicken for this recipe—rotisserie chicken works perfectly!
- You can substitute the mixed vegetables with any veggies you prefer, such as peas, carrots, or corn.
- For a twist, you can add a little cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) to the filling for extra creaminess and flavor.
- These hand pies freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Appetizers, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American