Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that transports you straight to the sunny shores of Jamaica? Look no further! This Jamaican Chicken Patty recipe is your ticket to a flavorful culinary adventure, right in your own kitchen. These savory pastries are bursting with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a perfectly flaky crust. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this delightful dish, perfect for a quick dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a delicious snack.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Filling:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat, optional)
- 1 tbsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp ground thyme
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt to taste
For the Pastry:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup shortening (or cold butter)
- 1/2 cup ice water
Instructions:
Making the Chicken Filling:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken, allspice, thyme, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the spices are fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth or water and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped scallions. Season with salt to taste. Let the filling cool completely before assembling the patties.
Making the Pastry:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in the shortening (or butter) using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for a few seconds until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Assembling and Baking the Patties:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Use a 4-inch cookie cutter or a knife to cut out circles.
- Place a spoonful of the cooled chicken filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, crimping the edges to seal.
- Place the patties onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
Tips for the Best Jamaican Chicken Patties:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of allspice, thyme, and garlic before cooking.
- If you don't have a scotch bonnet pepper, you can substitute with a milder chili pepper or omit it altogether.
- Don't overwork the pastry dough, or the patties will be tough.
- For a crispier crust, brush the patties with a little egg wash before baking.
Variations:
- Beef Patties: Substitute the shredded chicken with cooked and shredded beef.
- Vegetarian Patties: Use a mixture of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and peas instead of meat.
- Spicy Patties: Increase the amount of scotch bonnet pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling.
Nutritional Information (per patty, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
Enjoy your delicious homemade Jamaican Chicken Patties! This simple yet flavorful recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. The satisfying taste and the ease of preparation make it a true winner among best recipes. Share your culinary creations with friends and family – they’re sure to be a hit!