Hens in a Blanket

Introduction

History

The origins of Hens in a Blanket are unclear, but it is believed to be a variation of the classic pigs in a blanket recipe. Instead of using cocktail sausages, this recipe uses chicken breast tenders for a unique twist on a popular appetizer.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to fully cook the chicken breast tenders before wrapping them in the crescent rolls to ensure they are cooked through.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or spices to the chicken before wrapping them in the crescent rolls.

- For a crispy crust, brush the tops of the crescent rolls with melted butter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hens in a Blanket with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or barbecue sauce. You can also pair it with a side salad or vegetable sticks for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Bake the Hens in a Blanket in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have chicken breast tenders, you can use chicken strips or even cooked chicken breast cut into strips. You can also use different types of cheese or crescent roll dough for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the Hens in a Blanket ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This makes them a great option for parties or gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Hens in a Blanket on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving. You can also garnish them with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Hens in a Blanket with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a light beer for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Hens in a Blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hens in a Blanket contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hens in a Blanket contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hens in a Blanket contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Hens in a Blanket contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Hens in a Blanket is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and wheat (crescent rolls).

Summary

Hens in a Blanket is a protein-packed appetizer that is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a great option for those looking for a satisfying snack without the guilt.

Summary

Hens in a Blanket is a fun and tasty appetizer that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha at her cozy farm in the countryside. We had spent the morning picking apples and gathering vegetables from her garden, and now we were settling in for a hearty lunch. Martha disappeared into her farmhouse kitchen, bustling about with a sense of purpose that intrigued me.

I followed her into the kitchen, eager to see what she was up to. As I entered the room, a delicious aroma greeted me, and I saw Martha pulling a pan of golden-brown hens out of the oven. They were wrapped in a flaky pastry crust, and I could see bits of savory filling peeking out from the seams. My mouth watered at the sight, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish.

Martha smiled at me as she placed the hens on the table, telling me that this was a family recipe passed down through generations. She explained that the hens were stuffed with a mixture of herbs, vegetables, and breadcrumbs, then wrapped in a pastry crust and baked until golden and crispy. The combination of flavors sounded divine, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.

As we sat down to eat, I savored every bite of the hens in a blanket. The tender meat, the flaky crust, and the savory filling all melded together in a symphony of flavors. I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own kitchen, and I begged Martha to teach me how to make it.

Over the next few weeks, Martha patiently guided me through the process of making hens in a blanket. She showed me how to season the filling just right, how to wrap the hens in the pastry so they stayed moist and tender, and how to bake them to perfection. I practiced diligently, making batch after batch until I felt confident in my skills.

As I became more comfortable with the recipe, I started to experiment with different variations. I added a touch of wine to the filling for a deeper flavor, mixed in some nuts for crunch, and even tried substituting the hens with other meats like duck or quail. Each new version was a delicious success, and I began to develop my own unique twist on Martha's traditional recipe.

Years passed, and I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen. I collected recipes from friends, family, and even strangers I met along my travels. Each dish held a story, a memory, a connection to someone or something special in my life. But hens in a blanket remained one of my favorites, a comforting reminder of the day I first saw the recipe and knew it was something I had to make.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells and sounds of cooking, I think back to that autumn day at Martha's farm. I can almost hear her laughter, feel her gentle guidance, taste the delicious hens in a blanket that started it all. And as I take a bite of the dish I've made so many times over the years, I feel a sense of gratitude for the recipes and traditions that have enriched my life.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a comforting, flavorful meal, look no further than hens in a blanket. Let the aroma of herbs and spices fill your kitchen, the warmth of the oven envelop you, and the taste of tradition linger on your tongue. And remember, every recipe has a story to tell – so savor each bite, and cherish the memories it brings.

Categories

| American Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Cheddar Recipes | Chicken Breast Recipes | Croissant Recipes | Kid-friendly Recipes |

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