This Brazilian oven-baked snack is a complete meal in one dish, perfect for feeding the whole family. With a tender, cream-enriched base and layers of flavorful toppings including seasoned chicken, cheese, and vegetables, this hearty dish requires no special equipment and comes together in just minutes of prep time.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 large egg
- 200g (7 oz) heavy cream
- 100ml (⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon) milk
- 100ml (⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 300g (2½ cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- Oil for greasing
For the Toppings:
- 100g (½ cup) tomato sauce
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (seasoned with paprika for color)
- 200g (7 oz) cream cheese spread
- 200g (7 oz) turkey slices, chopped
- 200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1 large ripe tomato, diced
- 100g (3.5 oz) turkey pepperoni or spiced turkey sausage, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack the egg and check for freshness. Add the heavy cream, milk, oil, and salt. Using a whisk or wooden spoon, beat the mixture until well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Add Flour and Create Batter
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing continuously to prevent lumps. The mixture will become thick and firm – this is normal and desired. This batter cannot be made in a blender due to its thick consistency, which creates a better texture than typical liquid batters.
Step 3: Incorporate Baking Powder
Add the baking powder and mix thoroughly until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The mixture should be thick but spreadable, similar to a yeasted dough consistency.
Step 4: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round springform pan or any baking dish you prefer with oil. You can use rectangular, square, or glass baking dishes – the shape doesn’t affect the final result.
Step 5: Spread the Base
Pour the thick batter into the prepared pan. Using an oil-dampened spatula, spread the mixture evenly across the bottom. The base will be relatively thick, which is perfect for this type of dish as it creates a substantial foundation for all the toppings.
Step 6: Add Sauce and First Layer
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the base using a spoon. Distribute the seasoned shredded chicken over the sauce, ensuring even coverage across the entire surface.
Step 7: Layer the Creamy Element
Add dollops of cream cheese spread across the chicken layer. You don’t need to spread it perfectly smooth as it will melt and distribute during baking.
Step 8: Add Protein and Vegetables
Evenly distribute the chopped turkey slices over the cream cheese. Sprinkle the diced tomato across the surface, followed by the grated mozzarella cheese – be generous with the cheese as it’s a key flavor component.
Step 9: Final Toppings
Top with sliced turkey pepperoni or spiced turkey sausage, arranging the pieces evenly. Sprinkle with dried oregano if using, being careful not to use too much.
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, using only bottom heat initially. The base needs to cook through completely. For gas ovens, use medium heat for about 7 minutes to preheat, then bake as directed. The top will brown naturally without needing additional heat from above.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 6)
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 6 adults or 8 children generously
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Protein Alternatives
Replace the chicken with cooked ground turkey, beef, or lamb. Leftover roasted meats work excellently when shredded or chopped. For a vegetarian version, use grilled vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Cheese Variations
Substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or a combination of cheeses. The cream cheese can be replaced with ricotta mixed with herbs, or thick Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Sauce Options
Instead of tomato sauce, try pesto, white sauce, or even a spicy arrabbiata sauce. Barbecue sauce works wonderfully with the chicken and creates a completely different flavor profile.
Vegetable Additions
Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or olives to increase the vegetable content. Corn kernels and spinach also integrate well into this recipe.
Spice Modifications
Add paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning to the base mixture for extra flavor. Hot sauce or chili flakes can be incorporated for those who enjoy heat.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served warm and fresh from the oven. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 10-12 minutes. The dish can be partially prepared ahead by making the base and adding toppings just before baking.
Cut into squares or wedges for serving. This hearty dish pairs well with a simple green salad or fresh fruit. For entertaining, cut into smaller portions for appetizer-sized servings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in a different sized pan? Yes, you can use any baking dish you have available. Rectangular, square, or round pans all work well. Just adjust the thickness accordingly – thinner layers will cook faster, while thicker ones may need a few extra minutes.
Why can’t I use a blender for the batter? The batter becomes quite thick and firm, similar to a bread dough consistency. Blenders cannot handle this thickness effectively, and hand mixing actually creates a better texture that’s more substantial and satisfying.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the base and even add some toppings a few hours ahead, but it’s best to add the cheese and final toppings just before baking to prevent the base from becoming soggy.
What if I don’t have cream cheese spread? You can substitute with regular cream cheese softened at room temperature, ricotta cheese, or even thick Greek yogurt mixed with herbs. Each will create a slightly different but delicious result.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked? The base should be set and lightly golden around the edges, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. A knife inserted into the base should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.