The Story Behind These Irresistible Chicken Muffins
Imagine a dish that combines the comfort of a savory pie with the convenience of a muffin – welcome to the world of Chicken Muffins! These delightful handheld treats are the perfect solution for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone craving a quick yet satisfying meal. Born from the classic concept of chicken pot pie, these muffins transform a traditional comfort food into a portable, easy-to-eat delicacy that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredient List with US and Metric Measurements
For the Filling:
- 12 tablespoons (180 ml) olive oil
- 1 cup (150 g) mixed vegetables (diced celery, green onions, or canned vegetables)
- 1 cup (150 g) chicken (diced light or dark meat)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) cream
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) poultry seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon (0.6 ml) salt
- Pinch of pepper
For the Crust:
- 12 tablespoons (90 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (40 g) baking mix
- 3 oz (90 ml) milk
- 1 large egg
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Vegetables
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat
- Add diced vegetables and sauté until tender (3-4 minutes)
- Create the Flavorful Base
- Sprinkle flour, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper over the vegetables
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop flavor
- Build the Filling
- Slowly add chicken broth and cream to the vegetable mixture
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens
- Turn off heat and stir in diced chicken
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
- Prepare the Muffin Batter
- In a medium bowl, lightly whisk the egg
- Add baking mix and milk
- Stir to combine, being careful not to overmix
- Assemble and Bake
- Spray a 6-cup muffin tin with baker’s spray or line with muffin liners
- Place 1 tablespoon of crust mixture in each muffin cup
- Divide chicken mixture evenly among the cups
- Top with another spoonful of crust mixture
- Final Baking
- Bake for approximately 15 minutes
- Look for a light brown, set crust
Nutritional Information
Per Muffin (Approximate):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-18g
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6 muffins
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Vegetable Variety: Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture
- Chicken Prep: Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal
- Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the crust tender
- Even Cooking: Use an ice cream scoop to distribute batter evenly
- Moisture Control: Let the filling cool slightly before adding to muffin cups to prevent soggy bottoms
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or additional mixed vegetables
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free baking mix and flour
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling
- Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I freeze these Chicken Muffins? A: Yes! Cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q2: What can I serve with Chicken Muffins? A: They’re great with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or as a standalone meal. Try a light ranch or herb dip on the side.
Q3: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Absolutely! Turkey, ham, or even pulled pork work wonderfully in this recipe.
Q4: How do I prevent the muffins from sticking? A: Use muffin liners or generously spray the tin with non-stick cooking spray.
Q5: Are these muffins kid-friendly? A: Definitely! They’re portable, tasty, and can be customized to suit picky eaters.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes
- Prep Ahead: Prepare filling and batter separately, refrigerate, and assemble just before baking
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Muffins – a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and deliciousness!
