When I first tried making Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mushroom Parcels, I was looking for a dish that was simple, comforting, and could still impress. It seemed like one of those recipes that feels fancy, but isn’t too complicated to whip up on a weeknight. The combination of chicken and mushrooms wrapped in flaky pastry had me sold. That first bite was a moment-crispy, creamy, and savory all at once. I knew this was a recipe I’d come back to often.
If you’ve ever wanted to try something that feels special but doesn’t require hours of cooking, Jamie’s Chicken Mushroom Parcels is the perfect go-to dish. You get the flavors of a gourmet meal, but with minimal effort.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mushroom Parcels Recipe
What makes this recipe so special is how Jamie Oliver blends earthy mushrooms, tender chicken, and fresh herbs wrapped in a buttery pastry. It’s like the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence.
This recipe calls for simple ingredients you can easily find at your local grocery store. The real magic happens when you assemble everything and bake it into golden, flaky perfection. It’s versatile enough to impress guests or be a weeknight family favorite.
Ingredients Needed
- Chicken breasts – You’ll need skinless, boneless chicken breasts. They provide the perfect, lean protein for the dish.
- Mushrooms – Mushrooms are the star here. Use cremini, button, or a mix. The earthy flavor pairs perfectly with chicken.
- Puff pastry – The golden, flaky pastry is what makes this dish so decadent. You’ll want ready-made puff pastry for convenience.
- Cream cheese – It adds richness and a little tang to the filling.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the savory depth of the mushrooms and chicken.
- Fresh herbs – A mix of thyme, rosemary, and parsley will bring a fresh, herby zing.
- Butter – For sautéing the mushrooms and adding richness.
- Salt & pepper – To taste, to make sure everything pops.
- Egg wash – One egg whisked with a little water, for brushing on the pastry to give it that golden shine when it bakes.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mushroom Parcels
This recipe is all about assembly, and it’s surprisingly easy.
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Prepare The Filling
- Start by finely chopping the mushrooms. I prefer using a food processor for quick work.
- Sauté the garlic in butter over medium heat, then add the mushrooms. Cook them until they’re soft and any liquid they release evaporates.
- Stir in the cream cheese, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Let it cool down a bit.
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Cook The Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In the same pan, cook the chicken on medium-high heat until it’s golden on both sides. This step seals in the flavors.
- After cooking, chop the chicken into small pieces and add it to the mushroom mixture.
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Assemble The Parcels
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares (or rectangles if you prefer).
- Spoon the chicken and mushroom mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold the pastry over to make a parcel. Seal the edges by pinching them together.
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Bake
- Brush the parcels with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Pop them into the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s talk about the science behind some of these key ingredients and why they work so well together.
- Chicken breasts: Chicken is a lean protein, but by cooking it with mushrooms and cheese, it absorbs a lot of flavor. The natural juices from the chicken also help keep the filling moist.
- Mushrooms: Mushrooms are full of umami, which is the savory ’fifth taste’ that balances out the richness of the pastry and cream cheese. When sautéed, mushrooms release water and condense in flavor, creating a perfect, earthy filling.
- Puff pastry: This pastry is made by layering dough with butter and folding it repeatedly. When baked, it puffs up and crisps because of the steam created inside the layers. This flaky texture is the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
- Egg wash: The egg wash is what gives the pastry that beautiful golden color and glossy finish. The proteins in the egg help it set perfectly in the oven.
Expert Tips
- Use cold pastry: Keeping the puff pastry cold until you’re ready to use it helps prevent it from getting too soft or sticky. It also ensures it puffs up nicely when baked.
- Don’t overfill the parcels: Less is more when it comes to the filling. You want the pastry to stay crisp and not leak out the filling while baking.
- Experiment with herbs: While thyme and rosemary are classic, you can also try adding sage, tarragon, or even a little lemon zest for a fresh twist.
- Let them rest: After baking, let the parcels rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set a little, making them easier to cut.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is easy to customize based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re in the mood for.
- Swap the chicken: You can replace the chicken with turkey, pork, or even beef for a different take.
- Add cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some grated cheddar or parmesan to the mushroom mixture.
- Vegetarian version: Make it meat-free by omitting the chicken and using a variety of mushrooms, spinach, or other hearty vegetables instead. A bit of ricotta or goat cheese can add richness.
- Herb variations: Instead of rosemary and thyme, use fresh basil and oregano for a Mediterranean spin.
Final Words
This recipe has been a go-to for me when I need something that feels like a treat but doesn’t take forever to make. It’s versatile, easy, and just plain delicious. Whether I’m making it for myself after a long day or serving it at a small dinner gathering, it always gets compliments.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mushroom Parcels?
You’ll need chicken breasts, mushrooms, garlic, fresh herbs, prosciutto, and puff pastry.
Can I Make The Chicken Mushroom Parcels Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prep them ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking.
What Can I Serve With Chicken Mushroom Parcels?
They pair great with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.