If you love comforting, flavorful dishes that bring a little elegance to your weeknight table, you are absolutely going to adore the Casino Chicken Buns from the Oven Recipe. These buns are a delightful marriage of fluffy, golden bread filled with a savory chicken mixture packed with herbs, garlic, and a subtle hint of mustard. Perfectly baked right in your oven, they offer a wonderful balance of taste and texture that feels both indulgent and homey—ideal for family dinners or impressing guests without too much fuss. The moment you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is a treasured favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All great dishes start with simple, well-chosen ingredients, and this recipe is no exception. Each ingredient plays a specific role, from building the airy buns to layering the savory filling, making the whole dish sing with flavor and inviting textures.
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cooked and shredded): The heart of the filling, offering tender, juicy protein.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds creamy richness and helps bind the filling.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle tang to the chicken for depth.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor, essential for that savory punch.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic and enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary: Offers herbal notes that elevate the filling’s complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: The perfect seasoning balance for all components.
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional): For extra cheesy goodness if you love a melty surprise inside.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the soft, fluffy buns that cradle the filling.
- 2 tsp active dry yeast: The magic that makes the dough rise and get airy.
- 1/2 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds moisture and a subtle fruitiness to the dough.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Feeds the yeast and balances savory flavors.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for flavor enhancement.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional for flavor): Adds a hint of savory warmth to the buns themselves.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Creates that gorgeous glossy, golden finish on the buns.
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for topping): Brings a nutty crunch and a beautiful visual touch.
- Fresh parsley or chives (chopped, for garnish): Gives a fresh, colorful splash when serving.
How to Make Casino Chicken Buns from the Oven Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by waking up your yeast in warm water mixed with sugar; this will get the bready magic going with a nice bubbly activation. Then, mix the flour, salt, and optional garlic powder in a large bowl. Add olive oil and the yeast mixture to form a soft dough. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let it rise in a warm spot for roughly 1 hour or until doubled in size—this patience is the secret to those fluffy buns!
Step 2: Make the Chicken Filling
While the dough rises, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix in the cheddar cheese if using—it melts beautifully during baking, creating pockets of gooey delight inside your buns. This filling is packed with flavor but balanced perfectly so it does not overpower the soft bread.
Step 3: Shape and Fill the Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into 8 even pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 4-5 inches in diameter. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken filling into the center of each circle. Carefully fold the dough edges around the filling and seal them tightly, shaping each into a neat bun. The sealed nature prevents any filling from escaping while baking and keeps all that juicy goodness inside.
Step 4: Final Rise and Egg Wash
Place the stuffed buns seam side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover with a kitchen cloth and let rise another 20-30 minutes until puffed up slightly. Beat the egg and brush it gently on top of each bun. Sprinkle sesame seeds if using. The egg wash gives the buns a shiny, golden crust that makes them irresistible just by sight.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your buns in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling the perfect moment to pull them out. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the filling set just right.
How to Serve Casino Chicken Buns from the Oven Recipe
Garnishes
Lightly sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the warm buns for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich, creamy chicken inside. It’s a simple touch that instantly elevates your presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
These buns are wonderfully satisfying on their own but pair beautifully with crisp green salads or a tangy coleslaw. You could also serve them alongside roasted vegetables to round out your meal with a healthy, colorful side. The creamy filling inside the buns contrasts nicely with fresh or roasted veggies.
Creative Ways to Present
For an entertaining twist, slice the buns into halves or thirds and arrange them on a serving platter as bite-sized appetizers. Alternatively, serve with dipping sauces like a spicy aioli or a simple garlic butter dip to amp up the flavor and turn these into a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container, leftover Casino Chicken Buns from the Oven Recipe keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently to regain that fresh-baked softness and warm filling.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze raw buns after shaping but before baking. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for fresh-from-the-oven goodness.
Reheating
Reheat the buns in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method retains the crisp, golden crust while warming the filling thoroughly. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the buns from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds even more flavor and saves time. Just shred it well before mixing with your filling ingredients.
Are these buns suitable to freeze after baking?
While you can freeze baked buns, they are best frozen before baking for optimal texture. If freezing after baking, make sure to wrap them tightly and toast gently when reheating.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the filling?
Yes, you can try Greek yogurt or sour cream as a tangy alternative, but mayonnaise gives the filling its signature creamy texture that balances the dish perfectly.
How do I make the dough without yeast?
Yeast is essential for the fluffy, airy texture here, so unfortunately, there’s no direct substitute. For a quicker option, you might consider a different type of bread recipe, but the texture will be different.
What if I want to make smaller buns?
Feel free to divide the dough into smaller portions for bite-sized snacks. Just adjust the baking time accordingly—smaller buns will bake faster, so keep an eye on their golden-brown color.
Final Thoughts
The Casino Chicken Buns from the Oven Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to share. Its combination of fluffy bread and richly flavored chicken filling creates a dish that feels like a warm hug in food form. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these buns bring comfort and a touch of elegance to your table. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your next signature dish!
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Casino Chicken Buns from the Oven Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Bread / Buns
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Casino Buns with Chicken are a savory, oven-baked treat featuring soft homemade buns filled with a flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and aromatic herbs. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and a golden egg wash sprinkled with sesame seeds, these buns offer a delicious combination of tender poultry and rich, herby notes perfect for a hearty snack or meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Filling
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cooked and shredded)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional for flavor)
Topping
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and garlic powder. Slowly mix in the yeast mixture and olive oil, kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-40 minutes or until it doubles in size.
- Make the Chicken Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors evenly. If using cheddar cheese, fold it into the mixture now.
- Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove excess air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a round disk and place a generous spoonful of the chicken filling in the center. Carefully wrap the dough around the filling to seal the bun, pinching the edges tightly to prevent leakage.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the filled buns seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg and brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash to give them a golden finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired. Allow the buns to rest for 10-15 minutes to rise slightly before baking.
- Bake the Buns: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack after removing them from the oven.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the buns for a fresh flavor and colorful presentation. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Casino Buns with Chicken.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with cooked shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a dairy-free version, omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Ensure the dough is not too sticky; add a little extra flour if needed while kneading.
- These buns can be prepared ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and baked fresh when needed.
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor in place of dried thyme or rosemary.
