Braided sesame buns with chicken are a delicious and impressive treat, perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a festive snack. These soft, golden-brown buns are filled with a flavorful chicken filling and finished with a crunchy sesame crust. This recipe combines simplicity with sophistication and is ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique presentation – The braided shape makes these buns visually appealing.
Delicious taste – The combination of juicy chicken and crispy sesame seeds creates a rich flavor experience.
Versatile – Ideal as a main dish, side dish, or snack.
Easily adaptable – Add vegetables or spices for extra flavor.
Make-ahead friendly – These buns can be prepared in advance and reheated later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Flour
Dry yeast
Milk
Sugar
Salt
Butter
Chicken breast
Garlic
Paprika powder
Black pepper
Mayonnaise
Mustard
Sesame seeds
Egg for brushing

Directions

Prepare the dough: Mix flour, yeast, milk, sugar, salt, and butter in a bowl. Knead until a smooth dough forms and let it rise until doubled in size.
Make the chicken filling: Cook the chicken breast with garlic, paprika powder, and black pepper. Let it cool and mix with mayonnaise and mustard.
Shape the buns: Divide the dough into equal pieces, roll them out, and fill them with the chicken mixture. Braid the buns and place them on a baking sheet.
Brush and sprinkle: Beat an egg and brush it over the buns. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a crispy crust.
Bake: Bake the buns in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool and serve: Let them cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 6-8 buns
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add chili powder or sambal to the chicken filling for an extra kick.
Cheesy lovers: Mix grated cheese into the filling for a creamy taste.
Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables or seasoned tofu.
Herb twist: Use herbs such as cumin, thyme, or oregano for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let the buns cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: They stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing: Store the buns in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature.
Reheating: Warm the buns in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes for a crispy texture.

FAQs

How do I ensure the dough rises properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place.

Can I make the buns in advance?

Yes, you can bake them ahead of time and reheat them before serving.

How can I speed up the rising process?

Place the dough in a slightly warmed oven (about 30°C/86°F) to speed up the process.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the buns may be a bit denser. A mix of whole wheat and regular flour works best.

What sauce pairs well with these buns?

Tzatziki, garlic sauce, or a spicy chili sauce complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, you can make the chicken filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

How do I get an extra crispy crust?

Brush the buns with an extra layer of egg and bake them slightly longer.

Are these buns suitable for children?

Yes, but for kids, you may want to reduce the spices if they prefer milder flavors.

Can I use other seeds instead of sesame seeds?

Yes, poppy seeds or sunflower seeds work well too.

What if I don’t know how to braid the dough?

You can simply shape the dough into small buns without braiding.

Conclusion

Braided sesame buns with chicken are a delicious and versatile treat suitable for any occasion. They are easy to make, store well, and can be customized to your taste. Whether served as a main dish or a snack, these buns are sure to impress.