Chicken à la King in Puff Pastry Vol-au-vent

Steps

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1. 1
   Prepare the puff pastry shells: Keep thawed puff pastry very cold. Using a fluted cookie cutter, cut two circles of the same size. Place the first circle whole on a baking sheet; cut a hole in the center of the second circle, about 3/4 inch from the edge.
   ▶ ≈0:46
2. 2
   Assemble the shells: Brush the edges of the first circle lightly with water. Place the second circle on top, aligning the fluted edges carefully. Prick the center (where you cut the hole) with a fork to prevent over-rising.
   ▶ ≈1:57
3. 3
   Apply egg wash and bake: Prepare egg wash by mixing egg yolks with a little cream. Brush the mixture evenly over the edges and sides of the pastry shells. Bake in a 400°F oven until golden and crispy. May be baked in advance and kept at room temperature for a couple of days.
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4. 4
   Begin the sauce: In a pot, sauté diced shallots in clarified butter until softened. Stir in flour to form a light roux and cook for a few seconds.
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5. 5
   Add stock and chicken: Pour in chicken stock to create a smooth sauce. Add the diced chicken pieces and sauté until the chicken is nicely caramelized and cooked through.
   ▶ ≈5:50
6. 6
   Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the diced mushrooms and red bell pepper pieces. Whisk until the sauce is smooth. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor.
   ▶ ≈7:49
7. 7
   Add cream: Pour in about half a cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Add a splash of hot sauce and optionally a splash of cherry/sherry for depth of flavor.
   ▶ ≈10:41
8. 8
   Final touches: Bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Add the peas at the very last moment. Taste and optionally finish with a knob of butter for richness.
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9. 9
   Plate and serve: Using a flat tool, gently lift the pastry lid and poke a small hole. Spoon the chicken filling inside; it is fine if it spills over slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and place the pastry top on as a hat. Serve one, two, or more shells per person. Alternatively, serve the filling over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes instead of in the pastry shells.
   ▶ ≈14:30