Florida Chicken Wellington is a delightful twist on the classic Beef Wellington, combining the flavors of succulent chicken breast with a vibrant blend of tropical ingredients. This dish features chicken wrapped in a flaky puff pastry, filled with a delicious mixture of fresh oranges, zesty lime, sweet mango, and aromatic herbs. The fruit adds a refreshing sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken, while the puff pastry creates a crispy, golden exterior. Ideal for a special dinner or a festive occasion, Florida Chicken Wellington brings a taste of the Sunshine State to your table, offering a unique and elegant presentation that’s sure to impress guests and family alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup fresh mango, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Tropical Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the diced mango, orange juice, orange zest, lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Mix well to create a bright and flavorful filling.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to remove any creases. Cut the pastry in half to make two equal squares. Place each chicken breast in the center of a pastry square.
- Fill and Wrap the Chicken:
- Spoon the tropical filling over each chicken breast, dividing it evenly. Fold the corners of the puff pastry over the chicken, sealing the edges by pressing firmly. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give a golden finish.
- Bake the Wellington:
- Place the wrapped chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Allow the Florida Chicken Wellington to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of mixed greens, steamed vegetables, or a light citrus salad.
Florida Chicken Wellington is a beautifully crafted dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken with the fresh and tangy taste of tropical fruits. Wrapped in golden, flaky pastry, this recipe offers an elegant and delicious meal that’s perfect for any special occasion or when you want to bring a bit of Florida sunshine to your dining table.
