Prep Time ⇒	20 mins
Cook Time ⇒	20 mins
Protein ⇒	3g
Fat ⇒	10g
Carbs ⇒	14g

_{Quick Chicken, Cranberry, and Brie Canapés}

Looking for a simple yet delightful finger food? These cheesy chicken pastry bites are sure to impress!

Ingredients :

• 1 ½ sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1 small smoked chicken breast, finely chopped
• 100g brie, cut into 24 even pieces
• 100g (¼ cup) cranberry sauce
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives

Allergens!
This recipe may contain gluten, wheat, milk, and lactose.

Method :

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan forced).

Step 2: Prepare the thawed puff pastry by cutting the whole sheet into 16 even squares and the half sheet into 8 squares. Line 1 ½ tablespoon (30ml) capacity mini muffin pans with these pastry squares, allowing the edges to rise above the muffin holes. Place in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Bake the pastry for 10 minutes or until lightly golden and crisp. Gently press down on the pastry to flatten slightly. Fill each hole with a bit of the chopped smoked chicken, top with a piece of brie, and add a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Scatter with fresh thyme leaves.

Step 4: Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until golden and the cheese is slightly melted. Finish by sprinkling with fresh chives.

Recipe Facts :

Did you know that cranberries are rich in antioxidants and may help improve heart health? For more information on cranberries and their benefits, check out this link. For more easy recipes, visit Hearty Recipes.

Recipe Notes :

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs for variety!

_{The Nutritional Benefits of Ingredients in Quick Chicken, Cranberry, and Brie Canapés :}

1. Chicken: Lean Protein Powerhouse
Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s low in fat, especially when skinless, making it a healthy choice for many diets. Additionally, chicken is rich in B vitamins, which play a crucial role in energy metabolism. To learn more about chicken’s nutritional benefits, check out the article on chicken.

2. Cranberries: Tart and Nutrient-Dense
Cranberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins, which are known for their role in preventing urinary tract infections. They are also high in vitamin C and fiber, making them a great addition to your diet. To delve deeper into the health benefits of cranberries, visit cranberry.

3. Brie: Creamy Indulgence with Nutritional Benefits
Brie cheese adds a rich flavor and creamy texture to canapés. While it’s higher in fat than other cheeses, it provides calcium and vitamin B12, essential for bone health and energy production. Choosing high-quality, artisanal brie can enhance both flavor and nutritional value. For more on the benefits of cheese, see cheese.

4. Bread or Crackers: The Base of Flavor
The base of your canapés can significantly affect their nutritional profile. Whole grain or seed-based breads provide fiber and essential nutrients, while traditional white bread is lower in fiber but often more palatable. Whole grain options support digestion and heart health. To learn more about the different types of bread, check out bread.

5. Fresh Herbs: Flavor Boosters with Health Benefits
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can elevate the flavor of your canapés while providing additional nutrients. They are low in calories but high in vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants that can contribute to overall health. For more information on the health benefits of herbs, visit herbs.

6. Olive Oil: Heart-Healthy Fat
If you drizzle your canapés with olive oil, you’re adding a source of healthy fats that can benefit heart health. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels. For more on olive oil’s benefits, see olive oil.

7. Honey: Natural Sweetener
If your recipe includes honey as a glaze for the chicken or as a sweetener for the cranberry sauce, you’re incorporating a natural sweetener with various health benefits. Honey contains antioxidants and can aid in digestive health. For further insights into honey’s properties, check out honey.

8. Nuts: Crunch and Nutritional Boost
If you decide to top your canapés with nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, you’re adding crunch along with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Nuts are linked to heart health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. To learn more about the benefits of nuts, visit the nuts page.

9. Conclusion: A Flavorful Bite with Nutritional Value
Quick chicken, cranberry, and brie canapés combine delicious flavors with impressive nutritional benefits. By incorporating these wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a festive treat that’s both satisfying and health-conscious. For more delightful recipes to enhance your gatherings, explore hearty-recipes.com for a wide range of options.