Pin it Elevate your midday meal with this vibrant Smashed Pea & Chicken Toast. This Modern European inspired dish transforms simple frozen peas and tender shredded chicken into a sophisticated open-faced sandwich. It is a satisfying balance of textures, with the crunch of toasted sourdough meeting the creaminess of mashed peas and juicy chicken, making it a perfect high-protein lunch or light dinner.
Pin it The secret to this recipe lies in its simplicity and the brightness of its components. By mashing the peas with lemon juice and olive oil, you create a zesty, chunky base that perfectly complements the savory notes of the chicken. A hint of chili flakes adds just enough warmth to make every bite exciting without overpowering the fresh pea flavor.
Ingredients
- For the Toast
- 4 thick slices rustic bread (e.g., sourdough or country loaf)
- For the Pea Mixture
- 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
- For the Chicken
- 1½ cups (200 g) cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- Toppings
- 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
For extra flavor, rub the toasted bread with a cut garlic clove before adding the topping. This adds a subtle, savory aroma that pairs perfectly with the lemon and peas.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily substitute the rotisserie chicken with leftover roasted turkey or even grilled tofu for a delicious vegetarian version. For a different flavor profile, try using goat cheese instead of feta for added creaminess.
Serviervorschläge
This dish is best served immediately to maintain the crunch of the bread. For a complete dining experience, pair this toast with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Pin it Whether you are prepping a healthy lunch or a light evening bite, this Smashed Pea & Chicken Toast delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease. Enjoy the delightful combination of fresh ingredients and satisfying textures in every crunchy bite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work wonderfully. If using raw fresh peas, blanch them for 2-3 minutes in boiling salted water, then drain and cool before mashing. This helps soften them slightly while maintaining their vibrant color and fresh flavor.
- → What type of bread works best?
Rustic, sturdy bread with good structure is ideal. Sourdough, country loaf, or whole grain bread holds up well to the moist pea mixture without becoming soggy. Avoid very soft bread that may collapse under the toppings.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and increase the pea mixture by half. You can also add grilled tofu, white beans, or roasted chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness. The dish remains filling and satisfying without the meat.
- → Can I prepare the pea mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the smashed pea and chicken mixture up to 4 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Toast the bread fresh just before serving to maintain crispness, then assemble and top.
- → What beverages pair well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh peas and lemon beautifully. Alternatively, try a light beer, sparkling water with lemon, or a fresh green tea for non-alcoholic options that enhance the vibrant flavors.
- → How should I adjust the chili heat level?
Start with ¼ teaspoon of chili flakes and taste as you go. You can sprinkle more on individual servings rather than mixing into the entire batch. For milder heat, use smoked paprika instead. For extra heat, add fresh sliced chili or hot sauce to the pea mixture.