Chicken packages

Delicious Chicken and Tomato Sauce Parcels

If you're looking for a quick, delicious recipe that looks impressive, you've come to the right place! These chicken parcels, filled with succulent meat and wrapped in a fragrant tomato sauce, are perfect for a family dinner or even to impress guests. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the parcels:
- 1 large egg
- 100 g flour
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 1 chicken breast (about 400 g)
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh, if available)

For the tomato sauce:
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 bell pepper (any color you prefer)
- A handful of fresh basil (or dried)
- Salt to taste
- 100 g grated cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the filling
Start by washing the chicken breast and cutting it into larger cubes. Use a sharp knife to ensure even cuts. In a skillet, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes, sprinkle with salt and rosemary, and cook, stirring constantly, until the meat is golden and browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil and let them cool.

2. Preparing the dough
In a bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing continuously until you obtain a firm and compact dough. Depending on the humidity in the air, you may need to adjust the amount of flour. If the dough is too soft, add a bit more flour. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

3. Forming the parcels
After the dough has rested, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Use a knife or a cutter to cut large squares, about 10 cm on each side. Place a few chicken cubes in the center of each square, then fold it over and press the edges to form an envelope. You can use a fork to seal the edges, ensuring the parcels stay secure during cooking.

4. Preparing the tomato sauce
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, blanch the tomatoes for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Peel them, chop them into cubes, and set aside. In a skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil and add the finely chopped onion. Cook until translucent, then add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Sauté for a few minutes, then add the tomatoes and basil. Season with salt and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Assembling the parcels
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter and arrange the filled parcels in it. Pour the tomato sauce over the parcels, ensuring each one is well covered. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top and bake everything for about 20-25 minutes, or until the parcels are golden and the cheese is melted and browned.

6. Serving and variations
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. These parcels are delicious warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. You can serve them with a crisp green salad or a side of rice to complete the meal. An interesting suggestion would be to add some olives or capers to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.

Practical Tips
- If you want to save time, you can use store-bought pastry sheets instead of making the dough from scratch. This will significantly reduce preparation time.
- Ensure the chicken breast is cooked thoroughly, but don’t let it dry out. Juicy meat will make the parcels more delicious.
- If you don’t have basil, you can substitute it with oregano or thyme, according to your preferences.

Nutritional Information
These chicken parcels are a good source of protein thanks to the chicken breast, and the tomatoes provide a significant amount of vitamins, especially vitamin C. On average, a serving has about 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, these parcels can be filled with pork or turkey, depending on your preferences.
2. How long can I keep leftover parcels? The parcels can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
3. Can they be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the parcels before baking them. When you want to eat them, let them thaw and bake them according to the instructions.

These chicken parcels are more than just a meal; they bring an explosion of flavor and a perfect texture. Whether you prepare them for a quiet evening at home or for a special occasion, you will surely be admired for your culinary skills. Don't forget to enjoy every bite and share this recipe with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: For the packages: 1 egg, 100 g flour, salt. For the filling: 1 chicken breast, salt, rosemary. For the sauce: 2 tomatoes, 1 onion, 3 cloves of garlic, 1 bell pepper, basil, salt, 100 g cheese for sprinkling on top.

 Tags:  paste chicken breast tomatoes pepper cheese