Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries Recipe

Experience the irresistible flavors of Turkey with this Tavuk Borek recipe! These flaky, golden pastries are filled with a savory chicken and creamy béchamel sauce, making them a perfect snack or a satisfying main course. Traditionally enjoyed as a snack in Turkey, this recipe (adapted from 'The Best of Lebanese and Middle Eastern Cooking') can be easily scaled for a heartier meal. This recipe features a customizable filling – swap out raisins for ground almonds for a unique twist! Bake or deep-fry for crispy perfection.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Calories 195.4 kcal
Protein 11g
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Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries 49

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries

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How to Make Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Steam 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast over boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through. Let cool completely.
  3. Remove skin and bones from the chicken. Finely chop the chicken breast.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons (57g) of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until smooth.
  5. Gradually whisk in 2 cups (475ml) of milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/2 cup (50g) ground almonds (or 1/2 cup raisins, if desired). Season generously with salt and pepper.
  6. Remove from heat and cover the surface of the sauce with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Let cool completely.
  7. Once cool, gently stir in the chopped chicken.
  8. For individual borek: Cut 1 package (14.1 oz) phyllo pastry lengthwise into 3 equal strips. Cover with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying.
  9. Brush one phyllo strip lightly with olive oil. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling at one end.
  10. Fold over the end and sides, then tightly roll up the pastry. Repeat with remaining pastry and filling.
  11. Place the borek seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.
  12. Brush the tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  13. For a large borek: Use 3 lightly oiled sheets of phyllo pastry to line the base of a lightly oiled 9x13 inch baking pan.
  14. Spread the cooled chicken filling evenly over the pastry.
  15. Cover with 3 more lightly oiled sheets of phyllo pastry. Sprinkle with water and lightly score the surface with a knife.
  16. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

15g

Fat

21g

Carbs

3g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries?

Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries takes about 85 minutes from start to finish — roughly 30 minutes to prepare and 55 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries?

Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries has approximately 195.4 calories per serving, with about 11 g protein, 3 g carbohydrates and 22 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries?

The key ingredients for Tavuk Borek Turkish Chicken Pastries are Chicken Breast, Butter, Flour, Milk, Salt, Fresh Ground Pepper. See the full list with measurements above.

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