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Chicken Broccoli Braid

Chicken Broccoli Braid

This Chicken Broccoli Braid is a delicious and simple dish featuring tender diced chicken breast, vibrant fresh broccoli florets, and a golden, flaky braided puff pastry crust. It combines protein, veggies, and melted cheese into a visually impressive and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Easy to prepare with savory seasonings and a glossy egg wash finish, this recipe offers balanced nutrition and versatility with options for substitutions.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Dough and finishing

  • 1 sheet pre-made puff pastry (approx. 9x12 inches), thawed
  • 1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water (egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until no longer pink. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook until bright green but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into an even rectangle shape to serve as the base for the braid.
  3. Assemble the Braid: Spread the cooled chicken and broccoli filling evenly down the center of the dough rectangle. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously over the filling. Cut 1-inch wide strips along both long sides of the pastry. Fold the strips alternately over the filling to create a neat braid pattern.
  4. Brush and Bake: Brush the entire braid with the egg wash to achieve a glossy golden crust. Place the braid on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients like quality chicken and broccoli for the best flavor.
  • Do not overfill the braid to avoid breaking the dough.
  • Brushing with egg wash is essential for a shiny, appealing crust.
  • Allow the filling to cool before assembling to prevent soggy pastry.
  • Cut dough strips evenly for a uniform braid.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken broccoli braid, chicken puff pastry, savory braid, easy dinner recipe, vegetable and chicken bake, family-friendly meal