Easy Chicken Broccoli Braid Recipe for Dinner

If you’re looking for a delicious and simple dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a golden, flaky braid of dough, you’ve found it with this Chicken Broccoli Braid recipe. Perfect for dinner, it’s packed with flavor and easy to make, combining protein and veggies in a fun and impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your family or friends. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe delivers satisfying tastes and textures that make mealtime genuinely enjoyable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless elegance: The braided dough looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare and assemble.
• Balanced nutrition: Combines lean chicken with fresh broccoli for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
• Flavor-packed: A blend of savory seasonings makes each bite burst with delicious taste.
• Great for leftovers: Keeps well, making it perfect for batch cooking or next-day meals.
• Family-friendly: Kids and picky eaters love the fun presentation and tasty filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Chicken Broccoli Braid are straightforward but essential for that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Fresh broccoli brings crispness and nutrients, chicken provides lean protein, and the dough creates that irresistible golden crust.

• Chicken breast: Boneless and skinless, diced for tender, bite-sized pieces.
• Fresh broccoli florets: Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch.
• Shredded cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar for gooey, melty richness.
• Pre-made puff pastry: For an easy and buttery bread braid without the fuss.
• Garlic and onion: Finely chopped for aromatic depth.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and adding subtle fruitiness.
• Salt and pepper: To bring out all the other flavors.
• Egg wash: Egg beaten with water for that perfect glossy finish.

Variations for Chicken Broccoli Braid

Feel free to tailor this Chicken Broccoli Braid to your taste or what’s in your pantry. It’s a versatile recipe that welcomes substitutions and tweaks.

• Protein swaps: Use cooked shredded chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese variations: Try feta, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.
• Veggie additions: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Herbs and spices: Incorporate fresh basil, thyme, or red pepper flakes to spice things up.
• Gluten-free crust: Substitute the puff pastry with gluten-free dough for dietary needs.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Braid

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and onion and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Then, add the diced chicken breast and cook until no longer pink. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook just until they turn bright green but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle shape. This will be the base for your braid. Make sure the dough is evenly rolled for consistent baking.

Step 3: Assemble the Braid

Spread the cooled chicken and broccoli mixture evenly down the center of the dough rectangle. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the filling. Starting from one long side, cut strips about 1-inch wide down both sides of the pastry, then fold the strips alternately over the filling to create a neat braid pattern.

Step 4: Brush and Bake

Brush the egg wash over the braid to give it a beautiful golden shine once baked. Place the braid on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Broccoli Braid

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality chicken really elevate the taste.
• Don’t overfill: Keep the filling moderate to prevent the braid from breaking.
• Egg wash matters: Brushing the braid with egg wash ensures a shiny, appetizing crust.
• Let filling cool: Avoid soggy dough by letting your filling cool before assembling.
• Cut uniform strips: Equal-sized dough strips create an even, beautiful braid.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Braid

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a pop of color and fresh flavor on top after baking. A light drizzle of a tangy yogurt sauce can also complement the richness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted potatoes, or a light tomato soup to balance the flaky bread and hearty filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the braid into thick portions for a rustic family-style dinner or serve individual mini braids by dividing the dough into smaller portions before filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chicken Broccoli Braid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked braid after assembly by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag; bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crispy instead of microwaving, which can make it soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for the Chicken Broccoli Braid?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess water thoroughly before using to prevent soggy dough.

Is puff pastry the only dough option for this recipe?

No, you can also use crescent roll dough or homemade pie crust for different textures and flavors.

How long does it take to prepare and bake this recipe?

Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, and baking takes another 25-30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with additional veggies or plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

What cheese works best in the Chicken Broccoli Braid?

Mild cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar are ideal as they melt well and complement the chicken and broccoli flavors.

Final Thoughts

Ready to impress with a simple but stunning dinner? This Chicken Broccoli Braid blends savory chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy goodness inside a golden braided crust that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Give it a try tonight—you’ll love how easy it is to whip up and how wonderful it tastes at your table.

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