Chicken And Ham Bundles
Chicken and ham bundles feature tender chicken wrapped in ham and cheese, baked to perfection. A savory, cheesy dish ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine water and bouillon cubes.
- Bring to a boil; add chicken and sherry. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let chicken cool in broth for 30 minutes.
- Remove chicken from broth and let it drain slightly.
- Wrap a slice of cheese and a slice of cooked ham around each chicken breast.
- Place each wrapped chicken in a pastry shell.
- Brush the egg white over the pastry shells.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary when simmering the chicken. If you don’t have dry sherry, white wine or chicken broth can be used as a substitute. Ensure the pastry shells are fully thawed for even baking, and for a crispier texture, brush the pastry with butter instead of egg white.
Serving Suggestions
These bundles pair beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving them with a tangy dipping sauce, like honey mustard or a light balsamic vinaigrette. For a heartier option, complement them with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or rice, which can enhance the flavors of this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken And Ham Bundles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, ensuring the pastry remains crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Ham Bundles contains roughly 552 calories, with 22g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 633mg per serving (28% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack cheese adds a nice melt, you can substitute with Swiss, cheddar, or even provolone for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well for that gooey texture.
Can I prepare the bundles in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Chicken And Ham Bundles ahead of time. Assemble them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just brush with egg white right before baking for the best results.
What can I serve as a side dish?
These bundles go well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of rice pilaf for a more filling meal. They also pair nicely with mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.
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).