Cheesy Baked Chicken Buns 

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These golden, cheesy baked buns are soft, savory, and filled with a creamy chicken mixture. The tops are covered with melted cheese that browns beautifully in the oven, creating a rich, bubbling crust. Inside, the buns stay fluffy and warm, while the chicken filling adds flavor and heartiness. They make an excellent snack, dinner roll alternative, party appetizer, or lunchbox treat.

The image shows perfectly rounded buns baked to a deep golden color with a shiny layer of melted cheese on top. Each bun looks soft and airy underneath, with a slightly crisp and caramelized cheese crust on top.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 egg
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast

For the Chicken Filling

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup cream cheese or mayonnaise
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon oregano

For the Topping

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
  • 1 egg yolk (for brushing)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it rest for five minutes until frothy. Add the egg, softened butter, salt, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Knead the dough for eight to ten minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for one hour or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Chicken Filling

Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft, then add garlic and cook briefly. Add shredded chicken, paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir well.

Remove from heat and mix in cream cheese or mayonnaise. Adjust seasoning to taste. Let the filling cool completely.

3. Shape the Buns

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions (about 10–12 pieces). Flatten each piece gently with your hand.

Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center, then close the dough around it, pinching the edges securely. Shape each piece into a smooth ball with the seam underneath.

Arrange the buns on a greased or lined baking tray, leaving space between them to rise.

4. Second Rise

Cover the buns and let them rise again for 20–30 minutes. This step helps them bake light and fluffy.

5. Add the Cheesy Topping

Brush the tops of the buns with egg yolk. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over each bun, covering the tops fully. The cheese will melt and bubble in the oven, creating a beautiful crust.

6. Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the buns for 20–25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the cheese forms a lightly toasted top.

Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Flavor & Texture

These buns offer a wonderful combination of:

  • Soft, pillowy bread
  • Rich, savory chicken filling
  • Creamy interior from cheese or mayo in the filling
  • Gooey melted cheese on top
  • Toasted golden crust

The contrast between the soft bun and the bubbly cheese topping makes these incredibly satisfying to eat.

Tips for Perfect Buns

  • Make sure the dough rises in a warm place for best results.
  • Let the chicken filling cool before stuffing to avoid melting the dough.
  • Use low-moisture cheese on top for even browning.
  • Don’t overstuff the buns or they may leak while baking.
  • Add parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Variations

You can customize the filling easily:

  • Vegetarian version: sauté mushrooms, spinach, and cheese.
  • Spicy version: add jalapeños or chili flakes.
  • BBQ version: mix chicken with barbecue sauce.
  • Cheesy version: add extra mozzarella inside.
  • Breakfast version: add scrambled eggs and cooked sausage.

Serving Ideas

These buns are perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Lunchbox meals
  • Picnics
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Potlucks
  • Snack platters

Serve them warm with:

  • Garlic dipping sauce
  • Ranch
  • Marinara
  • Spicy mayo
  • Herb butter

Storage

Refrigerate

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Reheat

Warm in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness on the cheese topping.

Freeze

Freeze baked buns tightly wrapped. Reheat directly from frozen.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

These buns combine soft bread, creamy filling, and a cheesy top in one simple recipe. They’re visually impressive, comforting, and versatile. The steps are easy even for beginners, yet the result looks bakery-quality. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead of time.

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