Chicken and Cheese Jalousie Recipe
Make a Chicken and Cheese Jalousie with flaky puff pastry, creamy cheese, and savory chicken. A perfect golden-baked dish for any occasion!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Resting time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine French
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal
- 1 sheet puff pastry store-bought or homemade – Buttery and flaky base.
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken shredded or diced – Rotisserie chicken works well.
- 1 cup cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère – Adds a rich, gooey texture.
- ½ cup cream cheese or ricotta – Enhances creaminess.
- 1 small onion finely chopped – For depth of flavor.
- 1 clove garlic minced – Adds a mild, savory kick.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances the filling with a tangy contrast.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or black pepper – For extra warmth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme chopped – Brightens the dish.
- 1 egg for egg wash – Creates a golden, glossy pastry finish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
Preparing the Filling
Sauté the onions and garlic: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed onions, garlic, cream cheese (or ricotta), Dijon mustard, paprika, and fresh herbs. Mix well until fully combined.
Add cheese: Stir in grated cheese of your choice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling the Jalousie
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface into a 10x12-inch rectangle.
Fill the pastry: Place the chicken and cheese mixture in the center, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Create the lattice pattern:
Cut diagonal slits (about 1 inch apart) along both sides of the pastry.
Fold the strips over the filling, overlapping them like a braid.
Seal and egg wash: Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden crust.
Baking the Jalousie to Perfection
Place the assembled jalousie onto the lined baking sheet.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and flaky.
Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
To ensure your Chicken and Cheese Jalousie turns out flaky, golden, and full of flavor, keep these helpful tips in mind:
1. Best Puff Pastry Tips
- Keep the pastry cold before baking for a crispier texture. If it gets too soft, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before assembling.
- Use all-butter puff pastry for the best flavor and flakiness.
2. Preventing a Soggy Bottom
- Drain excess liquid from cooked chicken and vegetables before adding them to the filling.
- Preheat the baking sheet before placing the jalousie on it for a crispier base.
3. Enhancing the Flavor
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warmth that complements the cheese.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or grated Parmesan on top before baking for an extra crispy crust.
4. Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the jalousie up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.
- Freeze: You can freeze unbaked jalousie for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.