Braided Chicken

Chicken Bread is a soft, savory bread filled with spiced chicken, onions, and herbs, braided beautifully and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or meal, each slice is flavorful, warm, and satisfying!

Ingredients

• For the Dough:4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons powdered milk (optional, for added richness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons oil
• 1 egg (plus one extra for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon caster sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (helps reduce any yeasty aroma)
• For the Chicken Filling: 1 1/2 to 2 cups boiled and shredded chicken (approximately 250–300 grams uncooked)
• 2 small onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 4 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup milk
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. For the Chicken Filling:Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft.
2. Stir in 2 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon garam masala. Mix well.
3. Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
4. Add the shredded chicken and mix well. Stir in the chopped green chilies and coriander leaves.
5. Remove the filling from heat and let it cool completely. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
6. For the Dough:In a large bowl, combine 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon caster sugar, 2 tablespoons milk powder, 1 tablespoon instant yeast, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 4 tablespoons oil, and 1 egg.
7. Gradually add warm water and knead the mixture into a medium-soft dough.
8. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
9. Assembling the Bread:Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
10. Divide the dough into 2 or 3 portions, depending on the size of loaves you’d like.
11. Roll each portion into a rectangular shape. Using scissors or a knife, make cuts along each side of the dough, leaving the center uncut for the filling.
12. Place the cooled filling down the center of the dough. Fold the cut strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braid-like effect. Some filling may show slightly.
13. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
14. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
15. Finishing Touch:Once out of the oven, immediately brush the entire bread with melted butter and cover it with a cloth for 2–3 minutes to soften.