Smashed Pea & Chicken Toast

Experience a burst of freshness with this Smashed Pea & Chicken Toast. This vibrant, open-faced sandwich combines the sweetness of garden peas with tender shredded chicken, all served on perfectly toasted rustic bread. It is a modern European delight that works beautifully for a nutritious lunch or a light dinner, offering a sophisticated twist on the classic chicken sandwich.

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The key to this recipe lies in the texture. By mashing the peas with a fork, you maintain a chunky consistency that pairs wonderfully with the shredded chicken and the crunch of the bread. It's a satisfying meal that feels light yet keeps you full.

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: Prepare the Bread

Toast the bread slices in a toaster or grill pan until golden and crisp.

Step 2: Mash the Peas

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: Combine with Chicken

Fold the shredded chicken into the smashed pea mixture until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Toast

Spoon the pea and chicken mixture generously over the toasted bread slices.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Sprinkle with chili flakes, herbs, and cheese if using.

Step 6: Serve

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 topping. This adds a subtle, aromatic depth that complements the lemon and pea mixture perfectly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily adapt this dish! Substitute rotisserie chicken with leftover roasted turkey, or use grilled tofu for a delicious vegetarian version. If you don't have sourdough, any thick-cut country loaf works well.

Serviervorschläge

Enjoy this toast alongside a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc. It also pairs wonderfully with a side salad of mixed greens or a light cucumber salad for a complete meal.

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With its vibrant colors and balanced nutrition, this Smashed Pea & Chicken Toast is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It is proof that simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special with just a few minutes of preparation.

Questions & Answers

→ Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas work beautifully. Blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender, then cool quickly in ice water before mashing. Season the same way as frozen peas.

→ What type of bread works best?

Rustic breads like sourdough, country loaf, or ciabatta work best as they hold up well under the toppings. Look for thick slices that won't become soggy when loaded with the pea mixture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the pea and chicken mixture separately in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Toast fresh bread when ready to serve, as pre-assembled toasts will become soggy if refrigerated.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace the shredded chicken with grilled tofu, mashed chickpeas, or simply increase the pea quantity. The dish remains satisfying and protein-rich without meat.

→ How can I reduce the heat?

Simply omit the chili flakes or reduce to a pinch. The natural sweetness of peas pairs well with fresh herbs like mint or basil for a milder flavor profile.

→ What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or dry Rosé complements the fresh peas and balances the chili heat beautifully. The wine's acidity cuts through the creamy texture.