Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Wellington is an impressive and elegant dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts, paired with a flavorful mushroom filling (duxelles), all wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry. It’s a twist on the classic Beef Wellington, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying version. The combination of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and crispy puff pastry creates a meal that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Elegant Presentation: Chicken Wellington is an impressive dish perfect for holidays or dinner parties.
Tender and Flavorful: Juicy chicken breast with a rich mushroom filling encased in crispy puff pastry.

Perfect for Special Occasions: A great alternative to beef Wellington for a lighter, yet indulgent meal.
Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or even a cheesy twist for extra flavor.
Family-Friendly: This dish will please both kids and adults alike with its comforting yet elevated flavors.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

Jamie Oliver Chorizo Carbonara

What is Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington?

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Wellington is a refined version of the classic Wellington dish. It features chicken breasts wrapped in a savory mushroom filling, often referred to as duxelles, and encased in buttery puff pastry. The chicken stays juicy while the pastry provides a crispy exterior. The mushroom filling adds an earthy flavor that perfectly complements the chicken, making this a truly indulgent and satisfying meal.

Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 sheet of ready-made puff pastry
250g (9 oz) mushrooms (button, chestnut, or mixed), finely chopped
1 onion or shallot, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

100g (1/3 cup) crème fraîche or cream cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington

Step 1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2. Prepare the Mushroom Filling (Duxelles)

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion or shallot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Next, add the finely chopped mushrooms to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and the mixture becomes dry. Stir in the thyme and season with salt and pepper. If using, add the crème fraîche or cream cheese to the mushroom mixture for added creaminess. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3. Sear the Chicken Breasts

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a little olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly golden but not fully cooked. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven. Remove from the pan and let cool slightly.

Step 4. Assemble the Chicken Wellington

Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into four equal pieces, large enough to wrap each chicken breast. If you like, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each chicken breast for extra flavor.

Place a spoonful of the mushroom filling in the center of each pastry piece. Place the seared chicken breast on top of the mushroom mixture, then spoon more of the mushroom mixture over the chicken.

Carefully fold the puff pastry around the chicken and filling, sealing the edges by pinching the pastry together. Make sure the chicken is fully enclosed in the pastry to prevent leaks. Place the wrapped chicken, seam-side down, on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5. Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the tops of the pastry with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish. Use a sharp knife to cut a small slit or score the top of each Wellington to allow steam to escape during baking.

Place the Chicken Wellingtons in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp, and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 6. Serve

Once baked, remove the Chicken Wellingtons from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the Wellington.

Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty, balanced meal.
Green Beans: Lightly steamed or sautéed green beans add a fresh contrast to the rich pastry.
Gravy or Sauce: A simple herb or mustard cream sauce makes a delicious accompaniment to the dish.

Crispy Roasted Potatoes: For a crunchy side, serve with crispy roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington

Dry the Mushroom Mixture: Make sure to cook the mushrooms until all moisture is evaporated. This prevents the pastry from becoming soggy.
Use Cold Puff Pastry: Keep the puff pastry cold before assembling the dish to ensure it puffs up nicely during baking.

Seal the Pastry Well: Make sure the edges of the puff pastry are tightly sealed to prevent any filling from leaking out.
Rest Before Slicing: Let the Chicken Wellington rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to settle.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Searing the chicken briefly ensures it stays juicy while baking. Be careful not to overcook it before wrapping.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington

Cheesy Chicken Wellington: Add a layer of grated cheese, such as Gruyère or Parmesan, to the mushroom filling for extra flavor.
Herb Chicken Wellington: Add fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or tarragon to the mushroom mixture for a fragrant twist.
Spinach and Chicken Wellington: Add sautéed spinach to the mushroom mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

Prosciutto Chicken Wellington: Wrap the chicken in a slice of prosciutto before encasing it in the puff pastry for a more decadent version.
Vegetarian Wellington: Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or butternut squash.

How to Store Leftovers of Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chicken Wellington in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked Wellingtons. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Labeling: Always label your containers with the date to track how long the food has been stored.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington Leftovers

Oven: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until the pastry is crispy and the chicken is warmed through.

Microwave: While not ideal for puff pastry, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. The pastry may lose its crispness, but the chicken will stay tender.
Add Moisture if Needed: If the chicken becomes dry, drizzle with a little gravy or sauce while reheating.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 600 kcal

Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 40g

Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I freeze Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked Chicken Wellington. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

How long does Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington last in the fridge?

The Chicken Wellington will last up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I make Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the Chicken Wellington in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bake it fresh when ready to serve for the best results.

What can I serve with Jamie Oliver Chicken Wellington?

Serve Chicken Wellington with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or a green salad. Pair it with a delicious gravy or sauce for an extra touch of flavor.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Wellington is a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for a special dinner. With tender chicken, a savory mushroom filling, and a crispy puff pastry crust, this meal is as elegant as it is comforting. It’s a great alternative to the classic Beef Wellington and is sure to impress your guests. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the rich flavors and textures that make this dish so unforgettable.

More Jamie Oliver Recipes

Jamie Oliver Chicken and Mushroom Puff Pie