Are you looking for a creative meal idea? This Taco Chicken Filling Stuffed Challah Bread blends the best bread with the juicy, flavorful filling of classic chicken tacos. Don’t be intimidated by challah; although it may look intricate, it’s an easy recipe that even a novice baker can master. Plus, this dish makes a perfect prep day solution, ideal for later use or a family-friendly dinner or Sabbath gathering. 

Ingredients:

• 1 whole roasted/rotisserie chicken (shredded). You can also substitute with juicy chicken breasts or ground chicken.
• 1 packet of taco seasoning (or try this homemade taco seasoning blend with chili powder, cumin, and more).
• 1 batch of homemade challah dough (Try this Challah recipe)
• Suggested toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, green onions, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese, fresh cilantro, and salsa. 

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken Mixture:

• On a cutting board, shred the rotisserie chicken or prepare raw chicken using your favorite method (like poaching in chicken broth).
• In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, taco seasoning, ¼ cup of water, and a pinch of salt. Cook until fully coated and heated through.

2. Prepare the Challah Dough:

• Combine challah dough ingredients (water, egg, honey, oil, flour, salt, and yeast) in a bread maker on the dough setting. 

3. Stuff & Braid:

• Place the chicken mixture down the center of each dough rectangle. Be careful not to overfill.
• Pinch the edges of the dough to seal, creating three stuffed dough strands.
• Braid the strands like traditional challah, tucking the ends underneath to secure them.

4. Bake the Bread:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish or sheet with parchment paper.
• Transfer the braided dough to the dish, brush with an egg wash (1 egg + a tablespoon of water), and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of at least 190°F and a golden brown, crispy crust.

5. Serve & Customize:

• Let the bread cool slightly before slicing with a sharp knife.
• Serve alongside favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, green onions, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese, fresh cilantro, and salsa. 

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bread Recipe:

• Perfect Prep Meal: Make ahead and freeze for later! Just reheat in the oven or slice and enjoy warm.
• Customizable: Try spicy ground chicken, black beans, or even this Philly cheesesteak variety. 
• Family Favorite: A unique take on taco night that’s interactive and fun to serve.

Tips for Novice Bakers:

• If short on time, use store-bought challah dough or swap with French bread for simplicity.
• Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for best results.
• For easy cleanup, line the baking sheet with parchment paper.

This popular recipe is bound to become a staple for your next Taco Tuesday or Sabbath Gathering.  What’s your favorite taco-inspired dish? Let us know below!