Chicken friands are a delightful twist on the classic French almond cake, transforming a sweet treat into a savory snack that’s perfect for any time of day. Originating from French cuisine, friands are typically small, moist cakes made with almond flour. Our chicken friand recipe takes this concept further by incorporating tender chicken and savory herbs, creating a unique bite-sized dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Chicken Friand, we need a balance of flavorful chicken filling and a delicate friand batter. Below are the ingredient lists carefully organized to guide us through preparation.
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
For the Friand Batter
- 1 cup almond flour (finely ground)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/4 cup whole milk or cream
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: parsley, thyme, or chives finely chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- A light drizzle of olive oil before baking
| Ingredient Category | Key Ingredients | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Filling | Cooked chicken, onion, garlic, herbs | Flavorful savory center |
| Friand Batter | Almond flour, egg whites, sugar, butter | Moist tender cake base |
| Optional Garnishes | Fresh herbs, Parmesan, olive oil | Enhance aroma and presentation |
By gathering these precise ingredients, we set a solid foundation for the Chicken Friand recipe we are about to master.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Chicken Friand, gathering the right equipment is essential. This ensures precision, efficiency, and consistent results throughout the cooking process. Below is a detailed list of the tools we recommend for this recipe:
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls for combining the almond flour batter and preparing the chicken filling separately.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: An electric mixer is ideal for whipping egg whites to stiff peaks quickly, but a sturdy whisk also works well.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring tools guarantee the right balance between dry and wet ingredients.
- Sauté Pan: A medium-sized non-stick or stainless steel sauté pan helps cook the chicken filling evenly with onions and herbs.
- Spatula and Wooden Spoon: For stirring the filling and folding the delicate batter without deflating the egg whites.
- Friand or Muffin Tin: A standard 12-cup friand tin creates beautifully shaped individual cakes. Alternatively, use a muffin tin with similar-sized cavities.
- Parchment Paper or Non-stick Spray: To prevent sticking and make removing friands clean and easy.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the friands to cool evenly, preserving their moist texture.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing almond batter and chicken filling |
| Electric Mixer / Whisk | Whipping egg whites to stiff peaks |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Sauté Pan | Cooking chicken and aromatics evenly |
| Spatula / Wooden Spoon | Stirring and folding ingredients without deflating eggs |
| Friand / Muffin Tin | Shaping individual friand cakes |
| Parchment Paper / Non-stick Spray | Preventing sticking |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling friands evenly |
Pro tip: Using an electric mixer for the egg whites guarantees a fluffy, tender friand texture every time.
By assembling this essential equipment, we set ourselves up for a smooth cooking process, ensuring our chicken friands turn out perfectly golden, moist, and flavorful.
Prep Work
To achieve the best results with our Chicken Friand Recipe, thorough and precise prep work is essential. Let’s get started by preparing the flavorful chicken filling and setting the oven temperature correctly for even baking.
Preparing the Chicken Filling
We begin by preparing the star component: the chicken filling. Follow these detailed steps:
- Cook the Chicken: Use 1 cup of cooked chicken breast, finely diced or shredded. We recommend poaching or roasting the chicken for tenderness.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 small onion, finely chopped, and 2 garlic cloves, minced. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Herbs: Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves and 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped. These herbs add depth and freshness to the filling.
- Mix Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan. Toss for another 2 minutes to combine flavors evenly.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove from heat and fold in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for a savory richness.
Tip: Ensure the chicken filling is cool before incorporating into the friand batter to maintain perfect texture and prevent the batter from splitting.
| Ingredient | Preparation | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | Cooked and finely diced | 1 cup |
| Onion | Finely chopped | 1 small |
| Garlic cloves | Minced | 2 |
| Olive oil | For sautéing | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh thyme | Leaves, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh parsley | Chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Parmesan cheese | Grated | 1/4 cup |
Preheating the Oven
Before we mix the batter and assemble our savory chicken friands, preheating the oven is crucial for even baking and golden outsides.
- Set your oven rack to the middle position.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line the friand or muffin tin with parchment paper or spray with non-stick cooking spray to ensure effortless removal.
Pro Tip: A properly preheated oven promotes a crispy exterior while keeping the friand moist and tender inside, the hallmark of a perfect Chicken Friand.
Making the Chicken Friand Batter
To achieve the signature moist and tender texture of a chicken friand, preparing the batter carefully is crucial. We’ll walk through the steps to create the perfect almond-based batter that complements the savory chicken filling.
Step 1: Whip the Egg Whites
Begin by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Using an electric mixer or a hand whisk, whip the egg whites until they form soft peaks. This process incorporates air, which helps the friands rise and gives them a light texture.
Pro Tip: For best results, ensure the bowl and whisk are completely clean and dry before whipping.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together these key dry ingredients:
- Almond flour
- All-purpose flour (if the recipe calls for a blend)
- A pinch of salt
- A small amount of sugar (often less than for sweet friands to balance flavors)
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Almond flour | 1 cup (approx. 120 g) | Adds nutty flavor and moistness |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup (approx. 30 g) | Lightens texture |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | Balances flavor |
| Sugar | 1-2 tbsp | Subtle hint of sweetness |
Step 3: Melt and Cool Butter
Gently melt the butter until it just turns golden. Let it cool slightly so it does not cook the batter when combined.
Step 4: Fold Ingredients Together
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Then, pour the melted butter in slowly while folding carefully, maintaining the airy batter texture. Avoid overmixing to retain the tender crumb of the friand.
Step 5: Incorporate the Chicken Filling
Once the batter is ready, fold in the fully cooled chicken filling mix from the prior step. This ensures the ingredients combine evenly without collapsing the batter.
“Whipping the egg whites and folding techniques are the backbone of a successful chicken friand batter.” Maintaining this balance creates a batter that bakes to a perfectly crispy outside with a soft, moist interior surrounding the savory chicken center.
Following these steps precisely sets the stage for baking chicken friands that satisfy both texture and flavor expectations.
Assembling the Chicken Friands
Assembling the chicken friands is a crucial phase where all elements come together to form the perfect bite-sized savory cake. Follow these steps carefully for consistent results.
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Tin
Lightly grease your friand or muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray. For easy removal, line each cavity with a small square of parchment paper if desired. This prevents sticking and preserves the friand’s delicate shape.
Step 2: Portion the Batter
Using a spoon or small scoop, evenly distribute the almond flour batter into each prepared tin cavity. Aim to fill each mold about ¾ full to allow room for the friands to rise while baking. Even portions ensure uniform cooking.
Step 3: Add the Chicken Filling
Take the cooled savory chicken filling you prepared earlier and place a generous tablespoon in the center of each batter portion. Gently press the filling down slightly but avoid mixing it into the batter at this point. This creates a defined savory center.
Step 4: Top with Garnishes
If using optional garnishes like fresh herbs, shredded Parmesan, or a light sprinkle of ground black pepper, add them now. These enhance both the aroma and visual appeal of the chicken friands.
Step 5: Final Smoothening
With the back of a spoon or small offset spatula, gently smooth the top of each friand to ensure an even surface. This helps achieve a uniformly golden and crisp exterior.
| Step | Description | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Grease the tin | Apply butter or spray to avoid sticking | Use parchment for easy removal |
| Portion the batter | Fill tins ¾ full with almond batter | Use a scoop for uniform size |
| Add chicken filling | Place 1 tbsp cooled chicken filling onto each friand | Press gently, keep filling intact |
| Garnish | Sprinkle herbs cheese or pepper on top | Adds aroma and visual pop |
| Smooth batter surface | Flatten top for even baking | Use spatula for professional finish |
Pro Tip:
“Chilling the assembled friands in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking can enhance the structure and help maintain their shape in the oven.”
Following this assembly method ensures your chicken friands bake evenly into beautifully golden, moist, and flavorful bites that highlight the tender chicken filling encased in a delicate almond crust.
Baking Instructions
We begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking and a perfect golden crust on our Chicken Friands. Prepare your friand or muffin tin by greasing each mold with butter or using non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that crisp edge we desire.
Next, carefully place the assembled friands into the oven on the middle rack. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the tops turn a light golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 15 minutes to maintain consistent heat for optimal rise.
Here is a quick reference table for baking times based on friand size:
| Friand Size | Baking Temperature | Baking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (4 oz) | 350°F (175°C) | 18 to 22 minutes |
| Mini (2 oz) | 350°F (175°C) | 12 to 15 minutes |
| Large (6 oz) | 350°F (175°C) | 25 to 28 minutes |
When baking completes, remove the friands and allow them to rest in the tin for 5 minutes. Then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the delicate almond crust firm up while keeping the inside tender and moist with the flavorful chicken filling.
As we bake our Chicken Friands, remember:
“Consistent oven temperature and gentle handling are key to moist, golden bites with a tender crumb and savory finish.“
By following these baking instructions, our friands will develop that trademark balance of crisp exterior and lush interior, making each bite an irresistible blend of nutty almond and savory chicken.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Chicken Friand experience, thoughtful serving enhances both presentation and flavor balance. Follow these steps to create a memorable dish for any occasion.
Pairing with Fresh Salads
Serve the warm chicken friands alongside a crisp, refreshing salad. We recommend a mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. The bright acidity cuts through the richness of the friand perfectly.
Complementary Sauces
A dollop of herb-infused yogurt or a tangy mustard sauce pairs beautifully. Here’s a quick sauce option:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix and serve chilled for a cooling contrast.
Ideal Beverage Matches
For a balanced meal, pair the friands with beverages that enhance savory herbs and almond notes. See the pairing guide below:
| Beverage Type | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Dry white wine | Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay | Crisp acidity complements herbs |
| Light beer | Pilsner or Blonde Ale | Refreshing and not overpowering |
| Sparkling water | Lemon or cucumber-infused | Cleanses the palate |
Presentation Tips
For a polished look:
- Arrange the friands in a single layer on a warm plate or wooden board.
- Garnish with sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to echo the herbs inside.
- Sprinkle finely grated Parmesan lightly over the top for added aroma and appeal.
Pro Tip: Serve the friands immediately after cooling on a wire rack to maintain their delicate texture and moist crumb.
These serving suggestions will highlight the savory, tender qualities of our Chicken Friand and create a delightful dining experience that impresses every guest.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our Chicken Friands fresh and delicious, proper storage and smart make-ahead methods are essential. Here’s how we can extend their shelf life while preserving their moist texture and savory flavor.
Refrigeration
- Allow the Chicken Friands to cool completely on a wire rack before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container or wrap individually in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freezing is ideal when preparing Chicken Friands in advance for future meals or events.
- Wrap each friand tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Freeze for up to 1 month for optimal taste and texture.
- To thaw, place friands in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 1–2 hours.
- Reheat gently in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to revive moistness and warm the filling.
Make-Ahead Assembly
We can assemble the friands a few hours or even a day ahead to streamline baking:
- Prepare the batter and chicken filling according to the recipe.
- Fill and garnish the friands in the tin.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Allow the friands to come to room temperature for 15 minutes before placing them in the preheated oven.
Storage Duration and Methods Summary
| Storage Method | Preparation Required | Storage Time | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Cool completely, airtight | Up to 3 days | Warm in 325°F oven 5-7 minutes |
| Freezer | Wrap tightly, label date | Up to 1 month | Thaw then reheat in oven 8-10 minutes |
| Make-Ahead Assembly | Fill and garnish, cover tin | Up to 24 hours (chilled) | Bring to room temp, bake as directed |
Pro Tip: For best results, avoid microwaving reheated friands, which can dry out the crumb. Oven reheating maintains the delicate almond crust and juicy chicken filling perfectly.
By following these storage and make-ahead tips we ensure our Chicken Friands stay fresh, flavorful, and ready whenever we want a gourmet savory bite.
Conclusion
Chicken friands offer a unique twist on a classic treat, blending savory flavors with a tender almond crust. With the right techniques and attention to detail, they come together as moist, flavorful bites perfect for any occasion.
Whether served warm alongside a fresh salad or stored for later enjoyment, these friands bring both elegance and comfort to the table. We’re confident that once you try this recipe, chicken friands will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are chicken friands?
Chicken friands are a savory twist on the classic French almond cake. They are small, moist bites made with tender chicken, herbs, and a delicate almond flour batter, baked into golden, flavorful treats.
What ingredients do I need for chicken friands?
You need cooked chicken, onion, garlic, herbs, cheese for the filling, and almond flour, egg whites, sugar, and butter for the batter. Optional garnishes include fresh herbs and Parmesan.
How do I prepare the chicken filling?
Cook chicken with onion, garlic, and herbs until tender. Mix in cheese and set aside. This filling is folded into the almond batter before baking.
What equipment is essential for making chicken friands?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer (for whipping egg whites), a friand or muffin tin, spatulas, and measuring cups and spoons.
How do I bake chicken friands properly?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the tin, fill with batter and chicken filling, garnish, then bake for 12–28 minutes depending on size. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 15 minutes.
Can I make chicken friands ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the batter and filling, fill and garnish the friands, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for fresh results.
How should I store leftover chicken friands?
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in the oven to keep them moist.
What are the best serving suggestions for chicken friands?
Serve warm with a crisp salad like arugula and cherry tomatoes, and sauces such as herb yogurt or mustard. Pair with dry white wine, light beer, or sparkling water. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan.
Why should I avoid microwaving chicken friands when reheating?
Microwaving can make friands soggy and ruin the delicate almond crust. Oven reheating helps retain their moist crumb and crispy exterior for the best texture.
What’s a pro tip for achieving fluffy friand batter?
Use an electric mixer to whip egg whites thoroughly before gently folding them into the almond mixture. This creates a light, airy batter perfect for tender friands.