Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Crescent Braid
This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Crescent Braid is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese, all enveloped in flaky crescent roll dough. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends and family, this recipe not only tastes great but also looks impressive on the table. Enjoy it hot straight from the oven, or save leftovers for a delicious lunch the next day. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal!
N/A
Servings
190
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream of chicken soup
1 (10 1/2 ounce can)
cooked chicken
2 (cups, cubed)
green pepper
1/2 (cup, chopped (or to taste))
broccoli florets
1 (cup)
onion
1/4-1/2 (cup, chopped (or to taste))
shredded cheddar cheese
1 (cup)
crescent rolls
2 (8 ounce cans)
egg white
1 (lightly beaten (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cubed chicken, chopped green peppers, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3
Unroll one package of crescent rolls onto a large greased baking sheet, making sure to keep the dough in one large sheet without separating the triangles.
4
Repeat the same step with the second package of crescent rolls, placing it next to the first on the baking sheet.
5
Using a pizza cutter or knife, make cuts along the longest sides of the dough strips about 1 1/2 inches apart and approximately 3 inches deep. Leave about 6 inches in the center of the rolls for the filling.
6
Spread the chicken and broccoli filling evenly down the center of the dough strips on each package.
7
To create the braid, lift one strip from each side of the filling, cross them over the filling, and twist them together. Continue this process with each strip until all the strips have been braided. Tuck the ends under for a neat finish.
8
If desired, brush the top of the braid with lightly beaten egg whites for a golden finish.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the braid is golden brown and fully cooked.
Nutrition Information
8g
Fat
18g
Carbs
12g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Crescent Braid?
It is a savory dish featuring a filling of chicken, broccoli, cheese, and cream of chicken soup wrapped in a braided crescent roll dough and baked until golden.
How many calories are in a serving of this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 190 calories.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
How long does the crescent braid take to bake?
The braid typically takes between 25 and 28 minutes to bake until golden brown.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saver for this recipe.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but ensure you thaw it and drain any excess moisture completely to prevent a soggy braid.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or a thick homemade white sauce as a substitute.
Is the egg white wash mandatory?
The egg white wash is optional but highly recommended for achieving a shiny, golden-brown finish on the crust.
What kind of cheese is best for this chicken braid?
The recipe calls for shredded cheddar cheese, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend.
How should I store leftover chicken braid?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken braid?
Yes, you can freeze the baked braid. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap; reheat in the oven for best results.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in an oven or air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit will help maintain the crispness of the crescent dough.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling ahead of time, but it is best to assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
What side dishes pair well with this meal?
A fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or a light fruit salad complement the richness of the braid well.
Can I add onions to the filling?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chopped onion for extra flavor.
What if I do not like green peppers?
You can omit the green peppers entirely or substitute them with red peppers or diced carrots.
How do I cut the dough for the braid effect?
Make cuts 1.5 inches apart and 3 inches deep along the long sides of the dough, leaving a 6-inch center for the filling.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors and fun braided shape make it a popular choice for children.
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?
Yes, puff pastry can be used, though it will result in a flakier, more buttery texture and may require adjusted baking times.
How do I prevent the bottom of the braid from getting soggy?
Ensure your broccoli and chicken are well-drained and bake the braid on a lower oven rack if needed.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely, cooked cubed turkey is a great substitute, especially for using up holiday leftovers.
What size cans of crescent rolls are needed?
You will need two 8-ounce cans of crescent roll dough.
Can I add extra spices to the filling?
Yes, garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper can be added to the filling mixture for extra zest.
Should the baking sheet be greased?
Yes, use a large greased baking sheet or parchment paper to prevent the dough from sticking.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 12 grams of protein.
Can I make this a vegetarian dish?
Yes, replace the chicken with extra broccoli or cauliflower and use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken soup.
How wide should the center filling strip be?
Leave about 6 inches in the center of the dough sheets to hold the chicken and broccoli mixture.
How do I finish the ends of the braid?
Tuck the ends of the dough strips under the braid at both the top and bottom for a neat, finished appearance.
Can I use a pizza cutter for the dough?
Yes, a pizza cutter is often easier than a knife for making clean, quick cuts into the crescent dough.
Can I make mini versions of this braid?
Yes, you can use individual crescent triangles to make smaller hand-held pockets with the same filling.