Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread. This savory Italian bread is generously filled with creamy chive and onion cream cheese, tender rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and a delightful blend of Ranch dressing and cheese. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, this dish combines all your favorite flavors into one delicious loaf.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread is not only incredibly satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a fun snack for movie night. The combination of creamy and savory ingredients creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Introduction
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress, look no further than Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread. This recipe marries the irresistible flavors of ranch, chicken, and bacon, all nestled inside a warm, crusty Italian loaf. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply craving a hearty meal, this stuffed bread is the answer. With its gooey cheese, savory filling, and crispy crust, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table.
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 inch) loaf Italian bread
- 1 (8 oz) package of chive and onion cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup bottled Ranch salad dressing
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken, roughly chopped
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 medium green onions, finely chopped
- 3 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided
- 1 Tbsp melted butter
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil to catch any drips during baking.
Step 2: Mix Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Ranch dressing, garlic salt, and onion powder. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your filling.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Bacon
Gently fold in the chopped rotisserie chicken, crumbled bacon, finely chopped green onions, and 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese into the cream cheese mixture. Ensure everything is well combined for an even distribution of flavors.
Step 4: Prepare Bread
Take the Italian bread loaf and slice it in half lengthwise. Carefully hollow out some of the bread from the center of each half, creating a cavity for the filling. Be careful not to cut through the bottom crust, as you want to maintain the integrity of the loaf.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the bottom half of the hollowed-out bread. Spread the creamy filling mixture on top of the cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese. Place the top half of the bread over the filling and gently press down to seal. Brush the outside of the bread with melted butter and wrap the entire loaf in aluminum foil.
Baking Note:
Place the foil-wrapped loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the cheese is melted. For the last 5 minutes, open the foil to allow the bread to crisp up nicely.
Suggestions for Presentation:
After baking, let the stuffed bread rest for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to slice. Cut the bread into 1-inch thick slices and arrange them on a serving platter. For an added touch, garnish with extra chopped green onions or a drizzle of additional Ranch dressing.
Tips:
- For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
- You can substitute the Colby-Jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella, depending on your preference.
- If you have leftover filling, it can be served as a dip with crackers or veggie sticks.
Time Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 399 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Sodium: 790 mg
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the best of comfort food with the convenience of easy preparation. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this stuffed bread will quickly become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a weeknight meal, it’s a recipe that promises to deliver smiles and full bellies.
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
A1: Absolutely! While Italian bread works wonderfully, you can also use French bread, ciabatta, or even a sourdough loaf for a different flavor profile.
Q2: Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prepare the filling and hollow out the bread a few hours in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Q3: Can I freeze the stuffed bread?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked stuffed bread. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Q4: What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread?
A4: This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, vegetable platter, or even a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Q5: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A5: You can use whole-grain bread, low-fat cream cheese, and a lighter Ranch dressing to reduce calories and fat. Adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, can also boost the nutritional value.
