Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies are the kind of irresistible treat that bring big smiles to any table—pillowy, golden pastries overflowing with velvety chicken filling, all tucked into adorable heart shapes. This recipe magically combines comfort and fun, making it a favorite for cozy suppers, Valentine’s Day surprises, or school lunchbox showstoppers. If you love creamy, savory flavors wrapped in flaky crust (and a little kitchen fun), these hand pies are about to capture your heart.

Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Even with a short ingredient list, every item plays an important part in creating the signature flavor and texture of Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies. From the richness of cream cheese to the flaky pie crust, every element works together for pure homemade bliss.

Cooked shredded chicken breast: Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for easy, tender filling every time.
Cream cheese (softened): Makes the filling lush, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Sour cream: Adds a tangy note that balances the richness of the cheese.
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey center—choose your favorite for different flavors.
Garlic powder: Delivers gentle savory depth without overpowering other flavors.
Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and extra dimension to the chicken filling.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors in the creamy blend.
Black pepper: Provides warmth and contrast to the creamy ingredients.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Offers a dash of freshness and a pop of color—perfect for garnish lovers.
Refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts): The key to that flaky, bakery-style pastry you want in every hand pie.
Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Gives the pies their irresistible golden, glossy finish.

How to Make Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies

Step 1: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling

Grab a mixing bowl and combine the shredded chicken with the cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley if you like. Mix everything until it’s evenly blended—the goal is a smooth, luscious filling with no dry spots. Pausing to taste (and swoon a little) is always encouraged.

Step 2: Prepare and Cut the Pie Crust

Take your refrigerated pie crusts out and roll them slightly on a floured surface to ensure they’re even. Using a large heart-shaped cookie cutter or a sharp knife, cut out as many hearts as possible (you should get 16 for 8 hand pies). The heart shape is what gives Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies their signature look, so have fun with this part.

Step 3: Fill and Layer the Pies

Transfer half of the heart shapes to a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Place 1 to 2 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of each bottom heart—don’t overfill or the edges will be tricky to seal.

Step 4: Seal and Decorate

Lay the remaining heart-shaped crusts over the filled bases. Using a fork, gently press around the edges to seal each pie and add a bit of decorative flair. Brush the tops generously with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish that bakes up beautifully.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the hand pies are puffed, crisp, and golden brown. Once baked, let them cool just a little—eating them warm is a gooey, delightful experience you won’t want to miss.

How to Serve Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies

Garnishes

Sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top before serving, or add a dusting of grated parmesan for extra flair and flavor. A drizzle of buffalo sauce or a few drops of honey can also create an unexpected taste twist that makes each bite even better.

Side Dishes

Serve these hand pies alongside a light, crunchy salad to balance the richness, or pair them with roasted vegetables and a simple soup for a complete meal. For parties or snacking, fruit salad or pickles make bright, refreshing accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies on a wooden board with decorative toothpicks for a playful appetizer spread, or tuck them into themed lunchboxes for extra lunchtime love. They also make a stunning centerpiece for brunch or tea—who can resist those golden hearts?

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store cooled pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They’ll stay flaky and delicious, making them perfect for grab-and-go snacks or easy lunches.

Freezing

To make Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies ahead, assemble them right up to the egg wash, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Add a couple of minutes to the baking time straight from the freezer.

Reheating

For best results, reheat hand pies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes so the crust crisps back up. Microwaving is quick, but baking preserves their pastry perfection.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a delicious shortcut for tender, well-seasoned meat, and it makes prepping the filling even faster and easier.

What if I don’t have a heart-shaped cutter?

No heart cutter? No stress! Simply use a sharp knife to cut out hearts by hand, or opt for circles, squares, or any fun shape you have available—your hand pies will still taste amazing.

Can I add veggies to the filling?

Yes! Stir in finely diced, sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color in your Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies.

What dipping sauces go well with these hand pies?

Try serving with ranch, honey mustard, or spicy buffalo sauce for dipping. Each sauce complements the creamy, savory filling in its own unique way.

Can I prepare the pies in advance for a party?

Definitely! Assemble and freeze the pies ahead of time, then bake them right before guests arrive for fresh-from-the-oven goodness without any last-minute fuss.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies, you’ll want to make them a regular part of your kitchen repertoire. They’re comfort food with heart—literally! Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these hand pies promise smiles and second helpings. Give them a try and share the love!

Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies Recipe

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4.9 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 hand pies 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Sweetheart Chicken Hand Pies are a delightful savory treat perfect for any occasion. Filled with a creamy and flavorful chicken mixture, encased in a flaky pie crust and shaped into adorable heart shapes, these hand pies are as delicious as they are charming.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Hand Pies:

1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley until smooth and well mixed.
Shape the Hand Pies: Roll out the pie crusts and cut into heart shapes using a large cookie cutter or knife. Place half the hearts on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of each. Top with remaining heart-shaped crusts and press edges with a fork to seal.
Bake: Brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

These hand pies can be made ahead and frozen before baking—just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.
They are great for Valentine’s Day, parties, or packed lunches.
For a spicy variation, try adding a spoonful of buffalo sauce to the filling.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American