If you are craving a cozy, flavorful meal that combines soft, fluffy buns with savory chicken goodness, the Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe is your new go-to treat. This delightful dish brings together tender shredded chicken melded with a creamy, herb-infused sauce, all sandwiched inside golden, homemade buns fresh from the oven. It’s comfort food with a touch of sophistication that’ll have everyone asking for seconds and eager to share the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is simpler than you think with this recipe. Each element plays its part in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma that makes Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe so irresistible.
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cooked and shredded): The heart of the dish, providing tender, juicy protein.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds creamy richness to the filling.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Brings a tangy zip to balance the creaminess.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle depth of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary: Adds fragrant herbal tones.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings for perfect flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor): Melts into cheesy goodness that’s simply mouthwatering.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of soft, fluffy buns.
- 2 tsp active dry yeast: The magical leavening agent for rise and airy texture.
- 1/2 cup warm water: Reactivates the yeast and brings the dough together.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds tenderness and moisture to the dough.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the dough’s overall flavor.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional for flavor): A little extra pizzazz in the dough.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Gives the buns a beautiful shiny finish.
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for topping): Adds a subtle crunch and nutty aroma.
- Fresh parsley or chives (chopped, for garnish): Brightens up the finished dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by activating your yeast in warm water mixed with sugar. Once it’s bubbly and alive after about 5 to 10 minutes, combine it with the flour, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder. Knead everything into a smooth, elastic dough that springs back when poked. Let this dough rest and rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—about 30 to 45 minutes. This step is crucial because it ensures your buns will be soft and airy with just the right texture.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Filling
While the dough is working its magic, mix the shredded chicken with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper. If you’re craving some extra richness, stir in the grated cheddar now. The combination should be creamy with a lovely tang and fragrant herbal notes that’ll fill your kitchen with warmth.
Step 3: Shape the Buns
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and divide it into eight equal parts. Flatten each piece into a small disk and place a generous spoonful of the chicken filling in the middle. Fold the edges over the filling, pinching to seal them tightly so that nothing escapes during baking. Arrange the buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Add Egg Wash and Toppings
Brush each bun with beaten egg to give them a gorgeous golden shine after baking. If you love a bit of texture and an appealing nutty flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Then, let the buns rest for about 10 minutes before baking to let the yeast finish its work.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the buns for 20 to 25 minutes or until they are golden brown and irresistible. The aroma will be a wonderful giveaway that your Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe has reached peak deliciousness.
How to Serve Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving to add a fresh pop of color and a whisper of herbaceous brightness that complements the rich filling superbly.
Side Dishes
Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh salads or roasted vegetables to add balance and variety to your meal. A simple coleslaw or a bright cucumber salad is perfect to cut through the richness and keep things light and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming party platter, slice the buns in half and serve open-faced as bite-size sliders. You can also serve alongside a bowl of warm dipping sauce like a garlicky aioli or tangy barbecue sauce to elevate the experience. The versatility of this recipe means you can make an inviting, eye-catching presentation with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them at room temperature before refrigerating to preserve the freshly baked texture.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled buns individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will maintain their best quality for up to 2 months, making them perfect for a make-ahead option when you need a quick, tasty meal on hand.
Reheating
Warm refrigerated or frozen buns in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and soft again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the buns soggy or tough. Reheating in the oven refreshes that delicious crust and melty filling just like when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for the filling?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here and can save you time—just shred it and mix with the other filling ingredients. The savory seasoning that often comes with rotisserie chicken adds an extra depth of flavor.
Is it okay to substitute dried herbs with fresh ones?
Yes, fresh herbs can be used instead of dried. Use about three times the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated. Fresh thyme or rosemary will brighten the dish with more vibrant herbal notes.
Can I make these buns gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads, but results may vary. Gluten-free doughs can be less elastic, so handle gently and consider adding xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it.
What can I do if I don’t have active dry yeast?
Instant yeast can be used as a one-to-one substitute and can be mixed directly with the flour. If yeast is not available, unfortunately, the buns won’t rise properly, and the texture will be quite different.
Can these buns be made smaller or larger?
Definitely! The recipe is flexible. Just adjust baking times accordingly—smaller buns will need less time and larger ones a bit more. Keep an eye on color and texture as a guide.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about biting into a warm, homemade bun filled with savory, creamy chicken—and that’s exactly what the Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe offers to your table. Whether you’re serving family dinner or bringing a unique treat to a gathering, this recipe wins hearts every time. Don’t hesitate to give it a go and make it your new favorite comfort food classic.
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Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 buns
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful Casino Buns with Chicken, a savory oven-baked recipe featuring fluffy homemade buns filled with tender shredded chicken seasoned with herbs and a creamy mayonnaise-mustard sauce. Perfect as a hearty snack or a light meal, these buns combine golden crusts topped with sesame seeds and flavorful chicken filling, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Ingredients
Buns
- 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)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
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)
- Fresh parsley or chives (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Then add the flour, olive oil, salt, and optional garlic powder. Knead the mixture until you form a smooth, elastic dough. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Make the chicken filling: In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken breasts with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper. If desired, stir in the grated cheddar cheese for an extra flavorful filling. Set aside.
- Shape the buns: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small disk, place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center, and then fold and pinch the edges to seal the filling inside, shaping it into a bun.
- Prepare for baking: Place the buns onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam side down. Beat the egg and brush the tops of the buns evenly with the egg wash. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if using. Let the buns rest for another 10 minutes to slightly rise.
- Bake the buns: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Casino Buns with Chicken!
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded before mixing it with the sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cooked mushrooms or a plant-based protein.
- The cheddar cheese is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight for convenience.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt and pepper in the chicken filling.
