If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Braid Delight is just the ticket. With its flaky pastry exterior and creamy, savory filling, it’s a meal that’s sure to please any crowd. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce, all wrapped in golden pastry. Let’s get started on this delightful culinary creation!
Steps
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped broccoli, red bell pepper, crushed garlic, shredded Cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. Add the dried dill weed, salt, slivered almonds, and diced onion, mixing everything thoroughly.
- Roll out the crescent roll dough onto a baking sheet, pressing together the perforations to create one continuous sheet. Cut 1-inch wide strips along the long sides, leaving a solid 3-inch wide strip in the center. Place the chicken mixture along the uncut center strip.
- Fold the cut strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braid effect. Pinch or twist the edges to seal the braid securely.
- Brush the top of the braided dough with beaten egg white to achieve a golden finish. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup of fresh broccoli, chopped
- ½ cup of red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, crushed
- 1 cup of Cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup of mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons of dried dill
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of slivered almonds
- ¼ cup of onion, diced
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) of refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 egg white, beaten
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3480 | Total Fat: 216g | Saturated Fat: 84g | Cholesterol: 594mg | Sodium: 4536mg | Total Carbohydrate: 216g | Dietary Fiber: 24g | Total Sugars: 18g | Protein: 162g | Vitamin C: 180mg | Calcium: 1290mg | Iron: 18mg | Potassium: 1500mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Cheddar for the Chicken and Broccoli Braid?
- Yes, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with other types of cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, depending on your taste preferences.
- Is it possible to use fresh dough instead of refrigerated crescent rolls for this recipe?
- Absolutely, you can use fresh dough if you prefer. Just ensure it’s rolled out and shaped similarly to the crescent rolls to achieve the braid effect.
- How can I make this recipe healthier?
- To make the Chicken and Broccoli Braid healthier, consider using low-fat mayonnaise and cheese. You can also add more vegetables or use whole wheat crescent rolls for added fiber.
- Can I prepare the Chicken and Broccoli Braid in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the braid when you’re ready to serve it.
- What can I serve with the Chicken and Broccoli Braid?
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or a simple side of roasted vegetables to complement its flavors.
Tips
- Ensure that the crescent roll dough seams are sealed well after pressing them together to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- When cutting the fringe strips on the dough, use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors for clean cuts.
- To enhance the flavor, consider lightly toasting the slivered almonds before mixing them into the filling.
- If you want a crispier braid, allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack after baking to prevent moisture from making the bottom soggy.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet – A medium-sized baking sheet for arranging and baking the crescent roll dough.
- Pastry Brush – For brushing the egg white onto the braided dough.
- Mixing Bowl – A large bowl for tossing together the chicken, vegetables, and other ingredients.
- Kitchen Scissors – Useful for cutting strips in the crescent roll dough.
- Chef’s Knife – For chopping ingredients like broccoli, red bell pepper, and onion if not already owned.
