Chef Mitchell preparing Golden Baked Turnovers
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Golden Baked Turnovers recipe during my culinary journey, inspired by the need for a versatile snack. After perfecting the dough and filling, I shared it with friends, and it quickly became a favorite at gatherings. The joy of watching them disappear from the plate is priceless!"

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I specialize in creating simple yet delicious snack recipes. My passion lies in making comfort food accessible for everyone, and I love sharing tips and techniques that elevate home cooking.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Golden Baked Turnovers served on a plate

Why This Golden Baked Turnovers Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because of its flaky, golden crust and a flavorful filling that can be tailored to your taste. Using simple ingredients, you can create turnovers that bring comfort and satisfaction. They're perfect for parties, picnics, or even a cozy night in.

The technique used in preparing the dough ensures a perfect flaky texture, while the filling packs a punch of flavor. With a few simple steps, you can achieve restaurant-quality turnovers right at home.

💡 Professional Tip

For an even flakier crust, try using a blend of butter and shortening in the dough. Additionally, don't overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the turnovers in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them well with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before popping them in the oven for the best results.

If you'd like to substitute the chicken, you can use cooked turkey, beef, or even a vegetarian option such as sautéed mushrooms or spinach and feta. Each filling brings its unique flavor to the turnovers, allowing for creative variations based on your preferences.

The turnovers are done when they are golden brown and flaky on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for the filling to be fully cooked. If they are too pale, a few extra minutes in the oven may be necessary.

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked turnovers. Just arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

These turnovers pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider serving them with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy aioli. A fresh side salad also complements the savory flavors of the turnovers.

Stored properly in an airtight container, Golden Baked Turnovers can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this may make the crust soggy.

Yes, you can prepare the turnovers a few hours ahead of serving. Just assemble them and keep them covered in the fridge until you're ready to bake. They will still turn out delicious and fresh.

The best way to reheat Golden Baked Turnovers is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness instead of using a microwave, which can make them chewy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your turnovers are dry inside, it may be due to overcooking or not enough filling.

Solution: To prevent this, make sure to monitor the baking time closely and ensure that you have enough filling in each turnover.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the turnovers aren’t crispy, they may have been baked at a low temperature or were not brushed with egg wash.

Solution: To fix this, ensure you're preheating your oven adequately, and brush the tops with a beaten egg before baking for extra crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the turnovers are overcooked, they may be hard and burnt on the edges.

Prevention: To prevent this, set a timer and keep an eye on the color of the turnovers as they bake. Remove them as soon as they turn golden brown.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center is undercooked, it may remain doughy and not fully heated.

Recovery: To recover, return the turnovers to the oven for a few more minutes until they are thoroughly cooked through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior is burnt before the filling is cooked, it may be due to high oven temperature or too long baking time.

Prevention: To avoid this, consider lowering the oven temperature slightly or covering the turnovers with foil if they are browning too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the turnovers are too sweet, consider adding more savory elements like herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.

Too Salty: If they are too salty, adding a bit of sugar or honey can help balance the flavors.

Bland: If the turnovers are bland, try incorporating more seasoning or adding a flavorful dipping sauce on the side.

Fresh ingredients for Golden Baked Turnovers

Essential Ingredients for Golden Baked Turnovers

The key ingredients for these turnovers include a flaky dough made from flour and butter, a savory filling of chicken and cheese, and various spices for enhanced flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh chicken and real cheese, will elevate the flavor of your turnovers. Don't skip on the butter, as it is essential for achieving that rich, flaky texture.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • All-Purpose Flour: Using all-purpose flour provides the right balance of protein for a tender yet flaky dough. For best results, be sure to measure it correctly to maintain the proper dough consistency.
  • Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken adds protein and flavor to the filling. You can use leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience, saving time in the kitchen.
  • Cheese: Using shredded cheese not only adds creaminess but also enhances the flavor profile. Cheddar or mozzarella are great choices, but feel free to experiment with others like pepper jack or feta for added zest.
Cooking process for Golden Baked Turnovers

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Golden Baked Turnovers is a straightforward process that begins with preparing the dough and filling. The key is to keep the dough cold and work quickly to prevent it from becoming too warm.

After filling and shaping the turnovers, baking them to golden perfection is crucial for achieving the desired taste and texture. Be sure to follow the baking times carefully for the best results.

Key Technique for Perfect Golden Baked Turnovers

The most important technique in this recipe is ensuring the dough is chilled before baking. This helps to create those flaky layers. Additionally, using an egg wash will give your turnovers a beautiful golden-brown color.

Golden Baked Turnovers

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    For dipping
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    Fresh
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs
    Chopped, for garnish

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    For the dough
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled
    Diced
  • 1/4 cup cold water
    To bind the dough
  • 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
    Main filling
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
    Cheddar or mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
    For flavor
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor

Instructions

  1. Make the Dough

    In a bowl, mix the flour and diced butter until crumbly. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

  2. Prepare the Filling

    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers, sautéing until soft. Add shredded chicken, cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well.

  3. Roll Out the Dough

    On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into equal squares, approximately 4x4 inches.

  4. Fill the Turnovers

    Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each square. Fold over to form a triangle and seal the edges with a fork.

  5. Prepare for Baking

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg.

  6. Bake the Turnovers

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

  7. Cool and Serve

    Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Golden Baked Turnovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Golden Baked Turnovers with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara. A fresh salad or veggie platter on the side complements the meal perfectly.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fillings! Try using ground beef or a mixture of vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can also change up the spices to reflect your personal taste.