B'Stilla
A savory Moroccan-inspired pastry filled with chicken, almonds, and eggs, layered with flaky filo dough, fragrant spices, and topped with powdered sugar for a sweet-savory combo.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil chicken breasts in water, oil, and butter until cooked.
- Remove and shred the chicken into small pieces.
- Bring the broth to a boil and scramble 6 eggs in the boiling broth until cooked.
- Grind almonds into fine pieces.
- Layer in a buttered 13 x 9-inch dish: first a sheet of filo dough, then eggs, almonds, chicken, then repeat eggs, almonds, chicken, and top with 2 or 3 sheets of filo dough.
- Spread about 1/4 cup melted margarine over the top of the layered pastry.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and powdered sugar.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Optional: sprinkle additional powdered sugar after baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding saffron or a pinch of nutmeg to the filling. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. You can also use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time. Be sure to brush the filo dough with melted butter for a flaky texture, similar to the layers in Chicken Almond Spread.
Serving Suggestions
B'Stilla makes a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Serve it with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A light yogurt sauce can also complement the flavors well. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a glass of Moroccan mint tea or browse more chicken recipes to expand your menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This dish can also be frozen; wrap it tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of B'Stilla contains roughly 806 calories, with 7g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats like duck or even seafood. Adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through. For a vegetarian option, consider using hearty vegetables or legumes to maintain a satisfying texture.
What if I can't find filo dough?
If you can't find filo dough, you can use puff pastry as an alternative. Keep in mind that puff pastry will yield a slightly different texture but will still provide a delicious crust. Thaw the pastry according to package instructions before layering.
How do I make B'Stilla ahead of time?
You can prepare the layers of B'Stilla a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed. This method can enhance the flavors as they meld overnight.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).