Savory Chicken and Vegetable Hand Pies

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
• For the Filling:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or any herbs you prefer
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
   • Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
   • Add the bell peppers and corn, cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
   • Stir in the shredded chicken, season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
   • Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
   • Once cooled, mix in the shredded cheese.
3. Assemble the Hand Pies:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
   • Cut the dough into rectangles or desired shapes.
   • Place a spoonful of the filling on one half of each rectangle.
   • Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
   • Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the Hand Pies:
   • Brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg.
   • Use a fork to poke a few holes in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • Let the hand pies cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your savory chicken and vegetable hand pies!