Chicken Wellington

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Golden, flaky puff pastry wrapped around juicy, tender chicken breast and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce—this Chicken Wellington is my go-to dish when I want something show-stopping but surprisingly easy to pull off. The moment you cut into that buttery crust and steam rises from the savory filling, it becomes clear this isn’t your average chicken dinner. I’ve made this dish for dinner parties, romantic date nights, and even quiet Sunday meals—it never fails to impress.

I love how this recipe combines elegance with comfort. There’s something deeply satisfying about creamy, herbed chicken encased in layers of crisp pastry. You get contrasting textures in every bite—the crunch of the golden shell, the silkiness of the sauce, and the succulence of the meat. If you’re looking to elevate your next meal without getting too complicated in the kitchen, Chicken Wellington will absolutely do the trick.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Wellington

This recipe has that wow-factor presentation, but it’s not just a pretty dish. It delivers on flavor, too. The puff pastry puffs to perfection, while the chicken stays moist and flavorful thanks to the creamy mushroom and herb filling. It feels luxurious but doesn’t require a culinary degree to make. Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, it’s the kind of meal that makes any evening feel special.

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

For ease and reliability, I always go with store-bought frozen puff pastry. It saves time and still gives me that beautiful, crisp finish every time. Just make sure to thaw it properly in the fridge for a few hours before using, and don’t let it sit out too long or it gets sticky. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade puff pastry works too, but the frozen variety is more than capable of producing delicious results.

Options for Substitutions

No mushrooms on hand? Try a spinach and cream cheese mix instead. If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs work just as well as breasts—just adjust the cooking time. For a vegetarian twist, roasted portobello mushrooms can be used in place of chicken. And if dairy is an issue, opt for a non-dairy cream or cashew-based sauce to keep that creamy texture without the lactose.

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Ingredients for this Chicken Wellington

Chicken breasts – The star of the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer a lean, firm texture that bakes well within the pastry.

Puff pastry sheets – This forms the flaky, buttery outer shell. It creates the signature Wellington crust that’s crispy and golden.

Mushrooms – Finely chopped and sautéed, they form the base of the duxelles, a savory layer that keeps moisture in and adds umami.

Garlic – A key aromatic to enhance the flavor of the mushroom filling.

Shallots – Milder than onions, they add a subtle sweetness and depth to the filling.

Cream cheese or heavy cream – Creates a creamy binding for the mushroom mixture and ensures the inside stays rich and moist.

Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley) – These brighten the dish and provide earthy flavor.

Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning each component well.

Egg (for egg wash) – Gives the puff pastry a beautiful golden-brown finish.

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Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom Filling (Duxelles)

Finely chop the mushrooms, garlic, and shallots. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil or butter and sauté the mixture until all the moisture has evaporated and it becomes paste-like. Stir in cream cheese or a splash of cream to bind the mixture, then season with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs. Set aside to cool.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear them in a hot skillet with a bit of oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. You’re not cooking them through—just giving them a flavorful crust. Let them rest for a few minutes off the heat.

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Step 3: Assemble the Wellington

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Spread a layer of the cooled mushroom mixture in the center. Place a seared chicken breast on top. Fold the pastry over the chicken, sealing the edges tightly and trimming any excess. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet.

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Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Brush the top of the pastry with beaten egg to ensure a golden, glossy finish. If you’re feeling decorative, use pastry scraps to cut shapes or score a light pattern on top.

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Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the Wellingtons for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and a thermometer inserted into the chicken reads 165°F (74°C).

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Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the Chicken Wellingtons rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices from running and ensures the pastry stays crisp. Serve with your favorite sauce or side dish.

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How Long to Prepare the Chicken Wellington

Prep Time

Preparing Chicken Wellington takes about 30 to 35 minutes. This includes the time to chop and cook the mushroom filling, sear the chicken breasts, and assemble the pastry. If you’re working with thawed puff pastry and have your ingredients ready, the process is even smoother.

Cook Time

Baking takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). The puff pastry should be beautifully golden, and the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Wellington

• Dry the mushrooms well before cooking to avoid a soggy filling.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overbaking.
• Seal the pastry edges tightly to prevent leakage.
• Chill the assembled Wellington for 10–15 minutes before baking to help it hold its shape.
• Don’t skip the egg wash—it creates that beautiful glossy finish.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using wet filling: Excess moisture can ruin the puff pastry.
• Skipping the sear: It adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy.
• Overhandling the pastry: This can make it sticky and hard to work with.
• Baking at low temperature: The puff won’t rise properly. High heat is essential.
• Cutting immediately after baking: Letting it rest prevents soggy pastry and helps everything set.

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What to Serve With Chicken Wellington?

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes make a comforting and classic pairing.

2. Roasted Asparagus

Adds a crisp, fresh contrast to the rich chicken and pastry.

3. Honey Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tender carrots offer balance to the savory flavors.

4. Simple Green Salad

A refreshing salad with vinaigrette lightens the meal.

5. Mushroom or Dijon Cream Sauce

Serve with extra sauce for drizzling over the Wellington slices.

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Storage Instructions

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pastry will lose some of its crispness but will still be delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the pastry from becoming soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked Wellingtons. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C), adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cook time.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 530 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken is best for Wellington?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but you can also use thighs for a richer flavor.

Can I make Chicken Wellington ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the Wellingtons and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I know the chicken is cooked inside?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).

What can I use instead of mushrooms?

You can substitute mushrooms with cooked spinach, caramelized onions, or a mix of both.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely! If you have the time, homemade puff pastry adds an extra layer of flavor and flakiness.

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Conclusion

Chicken Wellington is a dish that feels like a celebration on a plate. With its crisp, golden pastry and creamy, flavorful center, it delivers on both texture and taste. Whether you’re making it for guests or treating yourself to a gourmet-style dinner at home, this recipe combines elegance and comfort in the most satisfying way.

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