Pin it This Smashed Pea & Chicken Toast is a vibrant and satisfying open-faced sandwich that brings together fresh textures and bright flavors. Featuring creamy smashed peas, tender shredded chicken, and a subtle hint of chili heat, it is a modern European dish that works perfectly for a quick lunch or a high-protein dinner.
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The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using a few staple ingredients, you can create a meal that looks as good as it tastes. The contrast between the crunchy toasted bread and the soft, chunky pea mixture creates a delightful eating experience.
Ingredients
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- 4 thick slices rustic bread (e.g., sourdough or country loaf)
- 1½ cups (225 g) frozen peas, thawed
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ lemon, juiced
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups (200 g) cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint or parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Toast the bread slices in a toaster or grill pan until golden and crisp.
- Step 2
- In a bowl, mash the peas with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper using a fork or potato masher. Aim for a chunky texture.
- Step 3
- Fold the shredded chicken into the smashed pea mixture until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 4
- Spoon the pea and chicken mixture generously over the toasted bread slices.
- Step 5
- Sprinkle with chili flakes, herbs, and cheese if using.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately while the toast is still warm and crunchy.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
When preparing the pea mixture, aim for a chunky texture. Using a fork or potato masher instead of a food processor ensures you maintain the rustic feel of the dish.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the rotisserie chicken with grilled tofu. If you don't have chicken on hand, leftover roasted turkey also works beautifully with these flavors.
Serviervorschläge
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which highlights the citrus notes of the lemon and the sweetness of the peas.
Pin it Enjoy this crunchy and savory toast immediately to appreciate the contrast between the warm bread and the vibrant pea mixture. It is a simple way to elevate your everyday toast into a gourmet experience.
Common Questions
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work beautifully. Blanch them briefly in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and cool before mashing. Fresh peas may require slightly less liquid when mashing.
- → What type of bread works best?
Rustic, hearty breads like sourdough, country loaf, or whole grain perform excellently. They hold up well to toasting and provide structure for the mashed pea mixture without becoming soggy.
- → How do I achieve the chunky pea texture?
Use a fork or potato masher and work the peas gently rather than thoroughly blending them. You want visible pea pieces throughout for better texture and visual appeal.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Prepare the pea and chicken mixture up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Toast the bread fresh just before serving to maintain crispness, then assemble immediately.
- → What are good protein-boosting additions?
Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or crispy bacon enhance protein content. A fried egg on top also adds richness and additional protein while complementing the fresh flavors.
- → How spicy is this dish with the chili flakes?
The ½ teaspoon provides mild heat that's easily adjustable. Start with a pinch and add more to your preference, or omit entirely for a milder version.