Chicken Puff Bravo
Creamy chicken and spinach dip with cheese, peppers, and mushrooms, ideal for parties or snack times, offering rich flavors and a smooth, cheesy texture.
Ingredients
- 3/4 lb Velveeta Mexican pasteurized process cheese spread with jalapeno pepper, cubed ⓘ
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 2 eggs, separated ⓘ
- 2 (10 oz) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained ⓘ
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped red or green pepper ⓘ
- 1 (4 oz) can sliced mushrooms, drained ⓘ
Instructions
- In a 3-quart saucepan, combine Velveeta Mexican cheese spread, sour cream, and garlic salt; stir over low heat until the cheese is melted.
- Remove from heat.
- Beat the egg yolks thoroughly and reserve 1 tablespoon for glazing.
- Gradually stir the remaining egg yolks into the cheese mixture.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; fold into the cheese mixture.
- Add the chopped cooked chicken, thawed and drained spinach, chopped peppers, and sliced mushrooms into the mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the Velveeta with a lower-fat cheese spread or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Fresh spinach can also be used in place of frozen; just wilt it beforehand to remove excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delightful served warm as a main course, and pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside Chicken Stuffed With Rice, or a light soup like James' Broccoli Soup to balance the richness of the puff. Garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Puff Bravo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave, covered, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Puff Bravo contains roughly 270 calories, with 14g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (186% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 793mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh spinach! Just sauté it briefly to wilt and reduce moisture before adding it to the mixture. Make sure to drain any excess water to maintain the right consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake it when you're ready to serve. It also tastes great as leftovers, making it a convenient option for busy days.
What can I serve with Chicken Puff Bravo?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a warm soup like Broccoli Noodle Soup. The combination will create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).