Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 pound ground chicken
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Filling
- 1 cup roasted garlic hummus
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, drained and sliced or chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Topping
- 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Cooking spray
- Olive oil for brushing parchment paper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush the parchment with olive oil to prevent sticking and help crisp the bottoms of the chicken pockets.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined to keep the mixture tender.
- Assemble the Chicken Pockets: Divide the chicken mixture into four equal portions and place each one on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each portion into an oval shape to form a base for the filling.
- Add the Filling: Spread about 1/4 cup of roasted garlic hummus over the center of each chicken oval, leaving a small border around the edges. Evenly distribute the crumbled feta, roasted red peppers, and chopped fresh parsley on top of the hummus. Then carefully fold the sides of the chicken mixture over the filling, leaving some filling visible in the center to create the pocket effect.
- Prepare and Add the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and sesame seeds. Sprinkle this topping evenly over each chicken pocket. Lightly coat the tops with cooking spray to encourage browning and crispiness during baking.
- Bake the Chicken Pockets: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For an extra crispy topping, broil the chicken pockets for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove the chicken pockets from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm and optionally pair with tzatziki sauce for added flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the chicken mixture to keep the pockets tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For added flavor, try using spicy roasted red peppers or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Tzatziki sauce pairs perfectly as a cool, creamy complement to the warm chicken pockets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Salt