Walnut Chicken Struedel
A savory Walnut Chicken Strudel features tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, broccoli, and melted cheese wrapped in flaky phyllo pastry, perfect for elegant dinners or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely chop 3/4 cup walnuts.
- Coarsely chop 3/4 cup walnuts and combine with cooked chicken, thawed broccoli, condensed cream of mushroom soup, shredded Muenster cheese, and coarsely chopped walnuts.
- On wax paper, place one sheet of phyllo dough.
- Brush the sheet with melted butter.
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon finely chopped walnuts.
- Repeat layers to make a total of 5 layers.
- Spoon half of the chicken mixture along the lengthwise edge of the layered phyllo.
- Roll up as for a jelly roll, tucking in the ends as you go.
- Place the rolled strudel seam side down on a greased cookie sheet.
- Brush the top with melted butter.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Cut 4 slashes in the top of the dough for ventilation.
- Repeat the process to make a second strudel.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. If you don't have Muenster cheese, try using mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. When layering the phyllo pastry, keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. Ensure to brush each layer generously with melted butter for a crisp texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Walnut Chicken Strudel is delightful served with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Pair it with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing to complement the flavors. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside a warm bowl of Curried Zucchini Soup to create a comforting dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover strudel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain its crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Chicken Struedel contains roughly 1277 calories, with 33g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (229% of the Daily Value), iron (121% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (119% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1065mg per serving (46% 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 fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken by poaching or baking it first. Cook until fully done, then cube it before mixing with the other ingredients. This ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful in the strudel.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with additional vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked quinoa. Ensure the cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian-friendly, and consider adding more cheese for richness.
Can I freeze the strudel before baking?
Absolutely! You can assemble the strudel, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze it before baking. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake as directed for a fresh and delicious meal.
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).