Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Braid Recipe

Crust:

1. In a medium bowl or stand mixer, dissolve the yeast in warm water with sugar. Allow to sit for 5 minutes, or until bubbly.

2. Mix in the flour, salt, and olive oil to form a smooth dough. Add the flour as needed until the dough consistency is slightly tacky to the touch but not overly sticky.

3. Let rise in a greased bowl for 30 minutes.

Filling:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Mix the cream cheese, chicken, broccoli, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and ½ cup cheese.

3. When the dough has risen, gently punch down, then roll out on a piece of parchment paper or silpat forming a rough rectangle approximately 15×20-inches.

4. Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture down the middle of the dough, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

5. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut 1-inch strips at a diagonal from outside of the rectangle to filling in the center. Fold the strips of dough over filling, alternating sides to make a braid pattern. When the end of the braid is reached, tuck in ends.

6. Move the parchment or Silpat to the baking sheet. Beat the egg lightly with water and brush egg mixture over braid. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt, to taste.

7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until light golden brown.

8. Serve and enjoy.