Description
Savory chicken bacon ranch stuffed bread delivers a mouthwatering explosion of flavors in every delectable bite. Crispy exterior gives way to a creamy, cheesy interior that promises pure comfort and satisfaction for hungry companions.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Flavor:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
Bread and Cheese:
- 1 large loaf of french bread or italian bread
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Seasonings and Extras:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect bread browning.
- Slice the bread lengthwise, creating a deep pocket without cutting completely through, ensuring a stable base for the savory filling.
- In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with ranch dressing until smooth, creating a creamy binding agent for the stuffing.
- Fold in shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, chives, garlic powder, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
- Generously stuff the bread cavity with the chicken-bacon mixture, pressing gently to ensure complete coverage and maximum filling potential.
- Brush the exterior of the bread with melted butter, promoting a golden, crispy exterior during baking.
- Wrap the stuffed bread loosely in aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and maintain moisture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, then unwrap the foil for the final 5 minutes to achieve a crisp, golden-brown crust.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes, allowing the filling to set and making slicing easier.
- Slice into thick, hearty portions and serve warm, revealing the luxurious, melted cheese and flavorful filling inside.
Notes
- Customize protein options by swapping chicken with turkey, pulled pork, or plant-based alternatives for varied dietary preferences.
- Create a lighter version by using low-fat cream cheese, reduced-sodium bacon, and Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing.
- Experiment with gluten-free bread or cauliflower bread base to accommodate specific dietary restrictions while maintaining the dish’s delicious essence.
- Enhance flavor complexity by adding smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to elevate the stuffing’s taste profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg