Chicken Pockets
Chicken pockets are savory, flaky pastries filled with tender chicken and pimento, perfect for a quick lunch or snack that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese and 2 tablespoons margarine until smooth.
- Add diced cooked chicken, pimento, salt, pepper, and milk; mix well.
- Separate crescent rolls into 6 rectangles.
- Spoon the chicken mixture evenly onto each rectangle.
- Pull up the corners of each rectangle and twist the dough tightly at the top to seal.
- Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and brush over each pocket.
- Roll the pockets in crushed seasoned croutons or sprinkle croutons on top.
- Place on an ungreased baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for the diced cooked chicken. You can use any type of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for added flavor. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach, making it a delightful twist on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken pockets with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Tennessee Cheddar Soup for a comforting dinner. You can also offer dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ on the side to enhance the flavors. These pockets make a great appetizer for gatherings or a fun addition to a game day spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken pockets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a couple of minutes, but they may lose some of their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Pockets contains roughly 358 calories, with 12g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1851mg per serving (80% 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 freeze chicken pockets before baking?
Yes, you can freeze assembled chicken pockets before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. This ensures they cook evenly while retaining their texture.
What can I use instead of crescent rolls?
If you don't have crescent rolls, you can use puff pastry or biscuit dough as an alternative. Puff pastry will give a lighter, flakier texture, while biscuit dough will create a denser pocket. Adjust the baking time slightly, as different doughs may require varying times to cook through.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your chicken pockets. Just make sure to sauté any raw vegetables first to soften them and reduce moisture, which helps maintain the texture of the pockets during baking.
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).