Looking for a show-stopping dish that’s equal parts cozy comfort and major flavor? Let me introduce you to Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven. Golden brioche buns cradle a creamy, cheesy chicken filling that’s flecked with colorful veggies and kissed with smoky paprika. Everything gets baked until bubbling and irresistible. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a casual weekend get-together, or just want the ultimate sandwich experience, these buns deliver every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every element in these Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven has a purpose: creamy richness, vibrant color, or that melty, crave-worthy finish. Here’s what you’ll need—and why each one matters.
- Brioche or hamburger buns: Soft and buttery, these are the perfect canvas for soaking up the flavorful chicken mixture without getting soggy.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie or baked chicken both work beautifully, adding juicy protein that anchors the filling.
- Mayonnaise: This adds luscious creaminess and helps bind everything together.
- Dijon mustard: A spoonful brightens the filling and gives just the right amount of tang.
- Garlic powder: For that subtle, savory background note that makes everything taste better.
- Smoked paprika: It’s the secret to that smoky depth and gorgeous color.
- Black pepper: Just enough to wake up the flavors without overpowering.
- Red bell pepper (finely diced): Adds crunch, sweetness, and a pop of red.
- Green onions (sliced): These bring freshness and a gentle bite to the filling.
- Shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese: Melty, gooey cheese is non-negotiable for that perfect stretch and flavor.
- Butter (melted): Brushing the buns gives them a golden, toasty finish.
- Dried parsley (optional): A sprinkle for color and herby aroma.
- Paprika (for topping): A final dusting for color and subtle flavor on top.
How to Make Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This step ensures your buns bake evenly and don’t lose their bottoms to the tray!
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, diced red bell pepper, green onions, and shredded cheese. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy, colorful, and every bite promises a little bit of everything.
Step 3: Assemble the Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven
Slice the buns in half and arrange the bottoms in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Pile a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto each bun base—don’t be shy, the filling is the star here! Once they’re loaded up, gently place the tops back on.
Step 4: Brush and Sprinkle
Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter to help them turn golden and slightly crisp in the oven. If you like, add a sprinkle of dried parsley and a pinch of paprika over each bun for extra color and a touch of herby flavor.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for golden tops and a hot, bubbly filling. If you want the insides extra gooey, let them go a minute or two longer. For a crisper edge, you can bake the buns open-faced for the first 10 minutes, then top them and finish baking.
How to Serve Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven
Garnishes
A final flourish can make these buns truly shine. Try a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, extra sliced green onions, or even a little more smoked paprika for a pop of color and flavor right before serving.
Side Dishes
Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven pair well with simple sides like a crisp green salad, classic coleslaw, or even a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. If you want to go all out, serve with seasoned potato wedges or sweet potato fries for a complete comfort meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, slice the buns into halves or quarters and serve them slider-style on a platter with toothpicks. Or, nestle them in a basket lined with parchment for a rustic, inviting look. If you’re feeling fancy, add small ramekins of extra mustard or aioli for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The filling stays moist, and a quick reheat brings back that melty, cheesy magic.
Freezing
These buns freeze surprisingly well! Wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the buns (unwrapped) in a 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps restore the crisp top and gooey center. For a quick fix, you can also microwave on medium power for about a minute, but the oven method gives the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Swiss are classic choices for their meltability, feel free to try cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Mix and match to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.
What’s the best way to shred the chicken?
You can quickly shred cooked chicken breasts or thighs using two forks, or pulse chunks in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for super speedy results. Rotisserie chicken is especially convenient and flavorful here.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! The chicken filling for Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven can be mixed up to a day in advance and stored covered in the fridge. Simply assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat.
Are there any good vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?
For a delicious vegetarian twist, swap the chicken for canned chickpeas (well-drained and lightly mashed) or cooked, shredded jackfruit. The creamy, cheesy base works beautifully with these options.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in a handful of chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even a few jalapeños for heat. The recipe is flexible and a great way to use up veggies from your fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something satisfying, fun, and guaranteed to be a hit, Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven are the answer. They’re easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for guests. I promise, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again!
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Casino Buns with Chicken from the Oven Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and cheesy Casino Buns with Chicken baked to perfection in the oven, these sliders feature shredded chicken blended with flavorful spices, mayonnaise, and cheese, all nestled in soft brioche buns. Perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or game-day snacks.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or baked)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
Buns and Topping
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the chicken mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, diced red bell pepper, green onions, and shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the buns: Slice the buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture evenly onto each bottom half. Then place the top halves of the buns back on.
- Add the finishing touches: Brush the tops of each bun with melted butter to ensure a golden, crispy finish. Sprinkle dried parsley and a pinch of paprika over the top for added flavor and color.
- Bake: Place the assembled buns in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. For a crispier texture, optionally bake the buns open-faced for the first 10 minutes, then add the tops and finish baking.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- These buns make excellent party sliders, satisfying weeknight dinners, or tasty game-day snacks.
- To achieve a crispier bun, bake the buns open-faced for the first 10 minutes before topping and finishing the bake.
- You can substitute mozzarella with Swiss cheese to vary the flavor profile.
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation or baked chicken for a homemade touch.
- Ensure buns are fresh for the best texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
