These spicy cheesy chicken buns are soft, fluffy, and packed with a rich, savoury filling that melts into every bite. The bread is tender with a lightly golden crust, while the filling delivers gentle heat, creamy cheese, and juicy chicken. This is a medium-difficulty bake that feels impressive but is very achievable at home. From start to finish, you will need around 2 hours including resting time.

Ingredients

For the buns dough

3½ cups all-purpose flour
2¼ tsp instant yeast
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
¾ cup warm milk
¼ cup warm water
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg

For the spicy chicken filling

1½ cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
½ cup cheddar cheese, grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp oil
1½ tsp red chili flakes
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt to taste
2 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup or chili sauce

For topping

1 egg, beaten
1 tbsp milk
Sesame seeds or chili flakes, optional

Method

Preparing the oven and dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm milk, warm water, butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and leave to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Making the chicken filling

Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in the chicken, chili flakes, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, then remove from heat. Let it cool slightly, then mix in the mayonnaise, ketchup, mozzarella, and cheddar. Set aside.

Related: Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

Shaping and filling the buns

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions. Flatten each portion into a small circle. Spoon the chicken filling into the centre, then gather the edges and seal well to form a bun. Place seam-side down on a lined baking tray, leaving space between each bun. Cover loosely and rest for 20 minutes.

Baking the buns

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the buns gently with the egg and milk mixture. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chili flakes if using. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Cooling and assembling

Remove from the oven and allow the buns to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm for the best cheesy texture.

Tips

How do I keep the buns soft after baking?

Brush the hot buns lightly with melted butter and cover with a clean cloth while cooling. This traps steam and keeps them tender.

Why is my filling leaking out?

Do not overfill the buns and make sure the dough is sealed tightly underneath before baking.

Can I make them less spicy?

Reduce the chili flakes and use plain ketchup instead of chili sauce for a milder flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with garlic mayo or chili sauce
Pair with a fresh green salad
Enjoy as a tea-time snack or light dinner

Storage

Room temperature

Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 day.

Refrigerator

Store for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Freezing

Freeze baked buns for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven.

Related: Mediterranean Chicken Wraps

Nutrition

Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Protein: 16 g
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Sodium: 420 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, ready-made dough works well and saves time, though homemade gives better texture.

Can I use leftover roast chicken?

Absolutely. Finely chop it so the filling stays compact and easy to seal.

What cheese works best?

Mozzarella for stretch and cheddar for flavour is ideal, but you can adjust to taste.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, shape and fill the buns, then refrigerate overnight and bake fresh the next day.