Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Dice the chicken (or tofu) into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
Mix with basil pesto and sun-dried tomatoes in a bowl.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Prepare the Filo Pastry
Cut each filo sheet in half to create rectangles.
Layer two sheets per bundle, brushing each layer with melted butter or olive oil to keep them pliable and ensure a crispy bake.
Assemble the Bundles
Place a slice of prosciutto (if using) at the center of the filo layers. Add a spoonful of the chicken mixture and a few mozzarella cubes.
Seal the Bundles
Gather the edges of the filo pastry around the filling, twisting gently to seal into a pouch shape. Brush the outside with more butter or oil. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Bake
Place the bundles on the prepared baking tray and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Cool and Serve
Let the bundles cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian: Replace chicken and prosciutto with mushrooms or smoked tofu.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pastry sheets.
Vegan: Swap mozzarella for vegan cheese, chicken for marinated tofu, and butter for vegan margarine.
Tips
Work quickly with filo pastry to prevent it from drying out. Cover unused sheets with a damp towel.
Don’t overfill the bundles to prevent tearing during baking.