Name: Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 sheets Butter Puff Pastry (thawed, but kept cold, approx 18 oz / 510g, 12.5″ x 10″ / 32cm x 25cm); 1 Chicken Breast (diced into ½ inch cubes, approx 12 oz / 350g); ½ tsp Chilli flakes; ½ tbsp Garlic, minced; 1 tsp Oregano; ¼ tsp Onion powder; 2 tbsp White wine; ⅓ cup Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; ⅓ cup Heavy cream; ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded; 1 pinch Salt; 1 pinch Pepper; 2 Egg yolks; 1 tbsp Milk

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 84 reviews

If you’re searching for a dish that’s as charming as it is delicious, you’ve got to try the Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe. This delightful treat brings together tender chicken breast, creamy parmesan, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes all embraced by perfectly flaky puff pastry, molded into adorable heart shapes. It’s the kind of recipe that makes every bite feel like a little celebration of flavor and love, ideal for a cozy dinner or a special gathering. Trust me, once you make these tarts, they’ll have you dreaming of your next occasion to whip them up again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two golden brown, baked pastries on a white plate with a white marbled texture background. One pastry is whole with a slightly puffy, flaky crust that is shiny and well-baked, while the other is cut in half, revealing layers of crispy, flaky pastry and a filling made of tender, shredded meat and reddish-brown sauce. Next to the pastries are two small, round bowls, one filled with a smooth, creamy white sauce and the other with a thick, dark reddish-brown sauce containing visible bits of chili or spices. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s wonderful about the Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is, coming together to create amazing layers of taste, texture, and color. From the buttery puff pastry that adds a crisp, golden shell to the rich creaminess of parmesan and heavy cream, every component plays a crucial role.

Butter Puff Pastry (2 sheets, thawed but kept cold approx 18 oz/510g): This provides the flaky, golden heart-shaped crust that’s irresistible.
Chicken Breast (12 oz/350g, diced into ½-inch cubes): Tender pieces that soak up the spices beautifully.
Chilli flakes (½ tsp): Adds a gentle kick and depth to the filling.
Garlic minced (½ tbsp): Fresh and aromatic, elevating every mouthful.
Oregano (1 tsp): Delivers a subtle earthy flavor, harmonizing the ingredients.
Onion powder (¼ tsp): Adds a mild sweetness and savory undertone.
White wine (2 tbsp): Brings brightness and helps meld the filling flavors.
Sun-dried tomatoes (⅓ cup, chopped): Bursts of tangy richness that contrast the creaminess.
Heavy cream (⅓ cup): Creates a luscious, velvety texture in the filling.
Parmesan cheese shredded (⅓ cup): Adds savory saltiness and depth.
Salt and pepper (a pinch each): Essential for seasoning to taste.
Egg yolks (2): Used for egg wash to give the tarts a glossy finish.
Milk (1 tbsp): Mixed with egg yolks to make the perfect glaze.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe - Recipe Image

Step 1: Cook and Season the Chicken

Start by pan-frying the diced chicken breast until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through. As the chicken sizzles, sprinkle in chilli flakes, minced garlic, oregano, and onion powder to infuse the meat with warmth and complexity. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute until the alcohol evaporates but the flavor remains — this step sets the foundation for that deliciously rich filling.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Filling

Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, shredded parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about two minutes until it thickens into a luscious, creamy filling. This part is crucial: let the filling cool completely before assembling the tarts or the puff pastry might melt and lose its shape during baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Place one sheet of cold puff pastry onto parchment paper. Using a 3-inch heart-shaped cutter, gently press the cutter onto the pastry to make four heart outlines without cutting through—these will guide where you place your filling.

Step 4: Add the Filling and Seal the Tarts

Place about two tablespoons of the cooled chicken filling inside each heart outline. Brush a little water around each filling mound to act as “glue.” Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet on top, pressing down around each filling heap to push out any trapped air pockets. Now, take a larger 4-inch heart cutter, center it over each filled heart, and cut completely through both layers, sealing the edges firmly.

Step 5: Vent and Glaze

Use a toothpick to prick a tiny steam vent in the center of each heart tart, which prevents the pastry from puffing unevenly. Mix the egg yolks and milk for your egg wash and brush a thin layer over the tarts to create a shiny, golden crust once baked.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the tarts into a preheated oven at 370°F (190°C) and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye around the 20-minute mark since ovens vary, and you want that puff pastry to rise beautifully and turn a gorgeous golden brown. Once done, let them cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe

Garnishes

The perfect garnish can elevate the already stunning Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe. Try a dollop of sour cream with a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives to add a burst of color and a touch of brightness. A drizzle of spicy chili sauce on the side offers a wonderful complement to the creamy filling and flaky crust.

Side Dishes

These tarts shine as the star of any meal but pairing them with a crisp green salad or lightly seasoned steamed vegetables works beautifully to balance richness. A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus spears are both favorites that add freshness and a variety of textures.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, consider serving these tarts on a wooden board surrounded by edible flowers or microgreens. Arranging them with a side of homemade dipping sauces like garlic aioli or a tangy tomato chutney can make the presentation feel gourmet without much extra effort. These heart-shaped tarts already bring charm to the table, so don’t be afraid to have fun with plating!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe, storing them properly ensures they stay delicious. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pastry will soften a bit but reheating correctly brings back much of its crispness.

Freezing

You can freeze these tarts successfully, making them a fantastic make-ahead option. After baking and cooling completely, wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your tarts back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it makes the puff pastry soggy. A quick reheat in the oven crisps up the exterior and warms the filling perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! While chicken breast keeps the tarts light and tender, you can experiment with diced turkey or even cooked ground beef for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to cook the meat fully before assembling the tarts.

Is there a vegetarian version of the Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe?

Yes, you can swap the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or roasted eggplant, combined with cream and cheese to keep the filling rich and satisfying. Adding some cooked lentils can also provide texture and protein.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Definitely! Making the filling in advance is a great way to save time. Just cool it completely before storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before assembling the tarts to avoid pastry issues.

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

No worries—any cookie cutter shape will do! You can get creative with stars, circles, or squares. Just adjust the size so the tarts hold a generous amount of filling without bursting.

Can I make these tarts gluten-free?

Yes! Choose a good quality gluten-free puff pastry to replace the regular one. Keep in mind gluten-free puff pastry behaves a little differently in the oven, so watch your baking time and temperature carefully.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Hearts Tarts Recipe is such a joy to make and share. Its combination of creamy, savory filling wrapped in golden, flaky pastry is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself to something special, these charming tarts bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of happiness to every bite. Go ahead and give them a try—you’ll be so glad you did!