Chicken Bastilla: Mini Chicken Pastilla for a Quick and Easy Dinner (1)

Introduction

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner? Chicken Bastilla, or Mini Chicken Pastilla, offers the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it an ideal option for a quick and satisfying meal. This Moroccan-inspired dish is a delightful twist on traditional pastilla, combining tender chicken with a variety of spices, all wrapped in a crispy pastry shell. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or looking to impress guests, these mini chicken pastillas are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and save you time in the kitchen. These mini-sized versions of the famous Moroccan pastilla offer all the flavor without the hassle of preparing a large dish.

Ingredients for Mini Chicken Bastilla

To make these delicious mini chicken pastillas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

These ingredients are simple but bring bold and aromatic flavors that will make your mini chicken pastillas unforgettable. The combination of cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger creates a warming and aromatic filling that pairs perfectly with the crispy phyllo dough.

How to Prepare Mini Chicken Bastilla

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Begin by cooking the chicken breasts. In a large pot, bring the olive oil to a simmer over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, then cook them until they become tender and fragrant. Then, add the chicken breasts, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, about 15 minutes. The chicken should be easy to shred at this point.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly before shredding it into small pieces using two forks. Shredding the chicken by hand allows it to soak up all the wonderful flavors of the spices.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

After shredding the chicken, put it back into the pot and fold in the chopped cilantro, stirring well to combine.
Stir in the beaten egg and mix thoroughly to bind everything together. Allow the mixture to cook for a few more minutes until the egg is fully cooked and absorbed into the chicken filling. This ensures that the filling will hold together once wrapped in phyllo dough.

Step 3: Assemble the Mini Pastillas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface, brushing it with melted butter to keep it soft and pliable. Phyllo dough is delicate, so it’s important to work quickly and keep the dough covered with a damp towel when you’re not using it.

Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of the dough, making sure not to overstuff it. Fold the edges of the phyllo dough to create a small parcel, folding in the sides and rolling it up tightly to seal in the filling. You can use a pastry brush to apply a little extra butter on the outside for a golden, crispy finish. Repeat this process for all the mini pastillas.

Step 4: Bake the Pastillas

Carefully place the assembled pastillas onto a baking sheet that’s been lined with parchment paper, Brush the top of each pastilla with more melted butter and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. The butter will help to create that perfect golden color, while the phyllo dough crisps up beautifully in the oven.

“Once done, remove from the oven and allow the pastillas to cool slightly. The exterior will be wonderfully crispy, while the inside stays moist and full of flavor.”

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pastilla

• Use fresh spices: For the best flavor, make sure to use fresh ground spices. This enhances the aroma and taste of the chicken filling. Ground cinnamon and turmeric, in particular, lend an earthy, rich flavor that will elevate the dish.
• Work quickly with phyllo dough: Phyllo dough dries out quickly, so be sure to keep it covered with a damp cloth while working. It’s best to work with one sheet at a time and keep the others wrapped up to prevent them from cracking.
• Customize the filling: You can adjust the sweetness and spice level by adding more cinnamon or adjusting the paprika to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter filling, try adding a little sugar to the mixture for a subtle contrast to the savory chicken.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the mini chicken pastillas in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer before baking. This makes them a great option for meal prepping or for a quick weeknight dinner. Just bake them directly from the fridge or freezer when ready.
• Serve with a side salad or dipping sauce: Mini chicken pastillas are perfect when paired with a fresh side salad or a simple yogurt-based dipping sauce. The cooling yogurt balances the warmth of the spices in the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make mini chicken pastillas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mini chicken pastillas in advance and freeze them before baking. Simply place the unbaked pastillas on a tray and freeze them until solid. After freezing, move them to an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag.

When you’re ready to cook, simply bake them directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

2. Can I use a different meat for the filling?

Absolutely! While chicken is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with turkey, beef, or lamb for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can use a combination of mushrooms, spinach, or tofu for a delicious alternative.

3. How do I store leftover pastillas?

Store any leftover mini chicken pastillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, return them to the oven for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to bring back their crispiness.

4. Can I make the pastillas without egg?

Yes, if you’re looking for a dairy-free or egg-free option, you can skip the egg in the filling. The pastillas will still turn out delicious! Consider using a bit of vegetable stock or olive oil to help bind the filling.

5. Can I use different pastry instead of phyllo dough?

Phyllo dough is the traditional choice for pastillas due to its light, crispy texture. However, if you can’t find phyllo dough, you can try using puff pastry as an alternative. The texture may vary a bit, but it will still be absolutely delicious!

Conclusion

Mini Chicken Bastilla is a fantastic choice for a quick and flavorful dinner. With its combination of crispy pastry, tender chicken, and aromatic spices, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or entertaining guests, these mini chicken pastillas will be a hit. They’re easy to prepare, versatile, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Enjoy your cooking and savor this delightful Moroccan-inspired dish!

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Gathering around the table for a meal like mini chicken pastillas is a great way to create lasting memories with your family. The delightful aroma of the spices fills the air as everyone eagerly waits to dig in. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings joy and excitement to the table. As the crispy pastillas are served, the family bonds over the shared experience of enjoying a homemade dish together. The combination of savory chicken, aromatic spices, and flaky pastry makes each bite a moment of happiness. It’s more than just food ,it’s a time for connection, laughter, and making memories that everyone will cherish.