Monterey Chicken Braid

When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Monterey Chicken Braid, I was immediately intrigued by the combination of flavors and the charming presentation. Imagine a cozy evening, the aroma of freshly baked dough wafting through the kitchen, as I prepare this delightful dish for my family. It’s become a staple in our home, especially during those busy weeknights when I want something comforting yet impressive. The first time I made this, I had my kids helping me braid the dough, and it turned into a fun family activity that brought us closer together. The joy of presenting a beautiful, golden-brown braid filled with tender chicken and creamy cheese is something I cherish. Each bite is a delicious reminder of love and togetherness that we often crave during the hectic days. This recipe is not just about food; it’s about creating memories with your loved ones around the dinner table.

Key Ingredients for Monterey Chicken Braid

When it comes to the ingredients used in Monterey Chicken Braid, each plays a crucial role in building the flavors and textures we love. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sour cream, and rich Monterey Jack cheese creates a mouthwatering filling that pairs perfectly with the flaky pizza dough. Plus, the addition of spinach adds freshness and nutrition, making this dish not only delicious but also a bit healthier!

• 2 cups cooked chopped chicken
• 1¼ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• ½ (10-oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• ⅔ cup sour cream
• ¼ tsp garlic powder, or to taste
• ¾ cup French fried onions
• 1 (13.8-oz) can refrigerated pizza dough

Monterey Chicken Braid Instructions

Making Monterey Chicken Braid is a simple and enjoyable process. With just a few steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delightful meal!

1. Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This step ensures that your braid cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden color.
2. Roll out the pizza dough vertically onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps the dough to bake perfectly without sticking.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, sour cream, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, spinach, garlic powder, and ½ cup of French fried onions. Stir until everything is well combined, and you see a creamy filling that’s ready to go.
4. Spread the chicken mixture down the center of the pizza dough, leaving some space at the ends for folding over.
5. Cut 12 strips on each side of the dough, about 1 inch wide. Be careful not to cut into the filling. This is what will create the braid effect.
6. To braid, lift the strips of dough across the filling to meet in the center. Alternate pulling strips from each side to form a beautiful braid. This step is where the fun begins, and it’s a great way to get the kids involved!
7. Once braided, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; it should be lightly browned and puffed up.
8. Remove the braid from the oven. Top with the remaining ¼ cup of Monterey Jack cheese and the rest of the French fried onions.
9. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and becomes bubbly. The smell will be irresistible!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Monterey Chicken Braid turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the braid! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the oven.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Consider a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Serving size: If you’re serving a larger crowd, you can double the recipe and make two braids!
• Texture check: When cooking, ensure the braid is well-baked and golden brown to achieve the desired flaky texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for Lunch: The Monterey Chicken Braid makes an excellent lunch option, especially when you have leftovers. It’s easy to pack and reheat.
• Dinner Delight: Serve this dish as the centerpiece for your dinner table, accompanied by a vibrant salad to balance the richness.
• Family Gatherings: It’s ideal for family gatherings or potlucks. The braid is not only delicious but also a fun dish to share.
• Seasonal Pairings: Consider serving this during cooler months, as it provides warmth and comfort. It’s perfect for cozy evenings.
• Side dish suggestions: Pair with garlic bread or a light soup to create a rounded meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Monterey Chicken Braid is a delightful dish that combines comfort and creativity in one delicious package. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a fun weekend project in the kitchen. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed by how easy it is to prepare and how much joy it brings to the table. Serve it with a side salad or some steamed veggies, and you have a meal that’s sure to please everyone!

Monterey Chicken Braid

The ultimate comfort food, Monterey Chicken Braid combines flaky dough with creamy chicken and cheese for an easy weeknight dinner. Perfectly braided, it's a show-stopping dish that everyone will love. Make it tonight for a delicious meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Cookie Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Chef Knives
• Cutting Board
• Rotary Cheese Grater

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked chopped chicken
• 1¼ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ (10-oz) package frozen chopped spinach thawed and drained
• ⅔ cups sour cream
• ¼ tsp garlic powder or to taste
• ¾ cup French fried onions
• 1 (13.8-oz) can refrigerated pizza dough

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This step ensures that your braid cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden color.
• Roll out the pizza dough vertically onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps the dough bake perfectly without sticking.
• In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, sour cream, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, spinach, garlic powder, and ½ cup of French fried onions. Stir until everything is well combined, and you see a creamy filling that’s ready to go.
• Spread the chicken mixture down the center of the pizza dough, leaving some space at the ends for folding over.
• Cut 12 strips on each side of the dough, about 1 inch wide. Be careful not to cut into the filling. This is what will create the braid effect.
• To braid, lift the strips of dough across the filling to meet in the center. Alternate pulling strips from each side to form a beautiful braid. This step is where the fun begins, and it’s a great way to get the kids involved!
• Once braided, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; it should be lightly browned and puffed up.
• Remove the braid from the oven. Top with the remaining ¼ cup of Monterey Jack cheese and the rest of the French fried onions.
• Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and becomes bubbly. The smell will be irresistible!

Notes

• Tip 1: You can use rotisserie chicken in this recipe. Any cooked chicken that you have on hand works great.
• Tip 2: I used a can of refrigerated pizza dough for this recipe, but you can substitute a can of crescent dough. Just make sure to seal the perforations and seams.
• Tip 3: Make sure to get as much water out of the frozen spinach as possible.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add more veggies to the chicken mixture. Red bell pepper and sundried tomatoes are delicious options.
• Tip 5: You can assemble the braid and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
• Tip 6: Once baked, let the braid cool completely. Wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Keyword comfort food, dinner braid recipe, Easy Chicken Recipes, Monterey Chicken Braid

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.