Bringing together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety topping, this Chicken Mushroom Tart delivers impressive flavor with minimal effort. The combination of flaky pastry and a savory, creamy center makes it ideal for gatherings, casual lunches, or a make-ahead appetizer. This guide walks you through each step so you can create a reliable, crowd-pleasing tart every time.
Chicken Mushroom Tart Recipe for Effortless Entertaining
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 slices
Description
A savory tart made with sautéed mushrooms, tender chicken, herbs, and a creamy topping baked in a flaky puff pastry crust.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry dough
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon light olive oil or canola oil
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1½ cups)
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
8 ounces cooked chicken meat, chopped
2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
1 clove garlic, minced
½ cup chopped walnuts
⅓ cup water or white grape juice
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces cream cheese
2 large eggs
½ teaspoon fresh orange zest (optional)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon white pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line the bottom of a 10-inch tart pan with parchment paper.
2. Roll the puff pastry into a 14-by-14-inch square so it can fully cover the bottom and sides of the pan.
3. Fit the pastry into the tart pan and trim the edges. Freeze the lined pan while preparing the filling.
4. Warm the butter and oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
5. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 5–7 minutes, allowing them to release their moisture.
6. Stir in the chicken, walnuts, rosemary, and garlic. Cook until the mixture is mostly dry.
7. Add the water or grape juice and cook until the liquid reduces again. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
8. Cool the filling completely. For quicker cooling, spread it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill for about 5 minutes.
9. In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, eggs, orange zest, salt, and white pepper until smooth.
10. Remove the pastry from the freezer and fill it with the cooled chicken–mushroom mixture.
11. Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the surface.
12. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and set.
13. Let the tart cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or cold.
Notes
Cool the filling completely for best texture. You may substitute walnuts with pecans or omit them.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers & Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
The Best Chicken Mushroom Tart for Easy Entertaining
Why This Chicken Mushroom Tart Works for Every Occasion
This tart offers structure, balance, and a savory profile that suits brunch tables, work potlucks, and holiday spreads. The filling holds together without being dense, while the topping creates a smooth finish that helps the Chicken Mushroom Tart stand out from traditional savory bakes.
Key Ingredients That Make This Chicken Mushroom Tart Stand Out
The core flavors come from sautéed onions, mushrooms, chopped chicken, and fresh rosemary. Walnuts add gentle crunch, and the cream cheese topping creates a polished look after baking. These simple ingredients elevate the Chicken Mushroom Tart without requiring additional complexity.
How This Chicken Mushroom Tart Delivers Flavor and Texture
Layering warm vegetables with herbs and creamy topping creates contrast between crisp pastry and tender filling. The technique ensures the tart remains sliceable yet soft, giving every bite a balanced finish.
Chicken Mushroom Tart Preparation Guide
Choosing the Right Puff Pastry for a Successful Chicken Mushroom Tart
A standard frozen puff pastry sheet works well, as long as it’s rolled large enough to reach the tart’s edges. Keeping the dough cold before baking ensures clean layers and improves the texture of your Chicken Mushroom Tart crust.
Prepping Chicken and Mushrooms for Maximum Flavor
Cooked chicken should be chopped into small, uniform pieces. Mushrooms release a lot of moisture, so sautéing them properly prevents soggy pastry and helps preserve the structure of the Chicken Mushroom Tart filling.
Time-Saving Tips for Making a Simple Chicken and Mushroom Slice
If you prefer a quicker version, prepare the filling a day ahead. Freezing the pastry-lined pan for several minutes keeps the base firm during baking.
Building the Perfect Chicken Mushroom Tart Filling
Sautéing Mushrooms and Onions for Rich Flavor
Starting with butter and oil helps the vegetables cook evenly. Onions should soften without browning, and mushrooms should stew until their moisture evaporates. This step guarantees the savory depth associated with a premium Chicken Mushroom Tart.
Adding Chicken, Herbs, and Walnuts for Depth
Fresh rosemary brightens the flavor while walnuts provide crunch. Stirring everything together creates a cohesive mix that supports even slicing.
Achieving the Ideal Moisture Level in a Chicken and Mushroom Slice
A splash of water or white grape juice brings the mixture together, but reducing it fully keeps the pastry crisp. Cooling the filling is essential before assembling your Chicken Mushroom Tart so the topping sets properly during baking.
Creating the Signature Topping for Chicken Mushroom Tart
How to Blend the Cream Cheese Layer for a Smooth Finish
Cream cheese and eggs form a silky top layer that browns gently in the oven. A bit of orange zest brightens the flavor without overpowering the filling.
Balancing Seasonings for a Savory Chicken Mushroom Tart
Kosher salt and white pepper offer clean seasoning that doesn’t compete with mushrooms or chicken. This harmony creates a refined finish that highlights the flavors within the Chicken Mushroom Tart.
Spreading and Setting the Topping for Even Baking
Distribute the topping evenly to prevent cracks. Once baked, the surface sets into a lightly golden layer that defines the tart visually and enhances its texture.
Baking and Serving Chicken Mushroom Tart
How to Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake at 375°F until the topping is firm and the edges of the pastry turn deep golden. The aroma alone signals when your Chicken Mushroom Tart is nearly ready for slicing.
Cooling, Slicing, and Storing a Chicken Mushroom Tart
Let the tart rest before cutting to maintain clean edges. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator, and reheat at a moderate temperature to preserve the pastry.
Pairing Suggestions to Complete Your Simple Chicken and Mushroom Slice
Serve with a leafy salad, roasted vegetables, or light soups. This tart also makes an excellent addition to appetizer boards. For a complementary dish, you might enjoy this flavorful creamy chicken dip with a tangy kick.
Tips, Variations & Modern Twists
Flavor Boosters for Your Chicken Mushroom Tart
A sprinkle of smoked paprika, extra herbs, or caramelized onions can deepen the savory layers without altering the structure of the Chicken Mushroom Tart.
Swaps and Substitutions for Dietary Needs
Use dairy-free cream cheese or omit walnuts if needed. The base recipe remains sturdy and forgiving.
Creative Ways to Repurpose Leftover Chicken Mushroom Tart
Slices reheat beautifully, but you can also cut leftovers into small squares for brunch platters or fold pieces into wraps for quick lunches. Pairing them alongside tender stuffed chicken bites adds variety to appetizer spreads.
FAQ
What is the best way to make a Chicken and mushroom tart ahead of time?
Assemble the tart fully, then refrigerate before baking. Bake shortly before serving to maintain freshness.
How do I keep a Simple chicken and mushroom slice from getting soggy?
Cook mushrooms thoroughly to remove moisture, cool the filling, and freeze the pastry briefly before assembly.
Can I freeze a Chicken and mushroom tart after baking?
Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Thaw before reheating to preserve the filling texture.
What mushrooms work best in a Simple chicken and mushroom slice recipe?
Cremini and white button mushrooms hold their shape well and offer balanced flavor that doesn’t overpower the herbs or chicken.
Conclusion
Final Thoughts on Making a Chicken Mushroom Tart at Home
This recipe brings together everyday ingredients in a polished, flavorful format that suits both casual meals and special occasions. With proper preparation, the Chicken Mushroom Tart bakes evenly and slices beautifully.
Why This Tart Belongs in Your Recipe Rotation
Its versatility, clean flavors, and make-ahead convenience make it an essential addition to your savory recipe collection.
Quick Recap and Encouragement to Try the Recipe
With crisp pastry, rich filling, and a velvety topping, this Chicken Mushroom Tart promises reliable results and elegant presentation. Give it a try—your kitchen (and guests) will thank you.
For more successful recipes, you can visit our Pinterest account