Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked chicken: Shredded or diced, this is the heart of the filling, providing protein and flavor.
- Bacon: Crispy and crumbled, it adds a smoky crunch that elevates the dish.
- Ranch dressing: This creamy dressing ties everything together with its zesty flavor.
- Cream cheese: Softened, it gives the filling a rich and creamy texture.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that gooey goodness we all love.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp flavor that complements the other cheeses.
- Green onions: Chopped, they provide a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
- Garlic powder: A sprinkle of this adds depth and warmth to the filling.
- Black pepper: Just a dash for a bit of heat and flavor enhancement.
- French or Italian bread: A sturdy loaf that holds all the delicious filling.
- Unsalted butter: Melted, it gives the crust a golden, crispy finish.
- Dried parsley: For a touch of color and a hint of herbal flavor.
- Extra cheese and bacon for topping: Because who doesn’t love more cheese and bacon?
- Garnish: Fresh parsley and extra bacon crumbles for that final touch.
Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients! You can even swap out the chicken for turkey or add some jalapeños for a spicy kick. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when it’s time to bake. A hot oven is key to achieving that perfect golden crust!
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Next, take your loaf of French or Italian bread and slice it lengthwise down the center. You want to create a hollow “boat” for all that tasty filling. Don’t forget to scoop out some of the inside to make room for the deliciousness to come!
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This filling is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Fill the Bread
Now it’s time to spread that creamy filling evenly into the hollowed-out bread loaf. Make sure to pack it in there, so every bite is bursting with flavor. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step 5: Add Toppings
Don’t hold back! Sprinkle extra mozzarella, cheddar, and those crispy bacon crumbles on top. This will create a cheesy, crunchy layer that’s simply irresistible. More cheese is always a good idea!
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Place your stuffed bread on a baking sheet. This makes it easier to handle when it’s hot. Brush the outer crust with melted butter and sprinkle some dried parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Now, pop that beauty into the oven and bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Slice the stuffed bread into thick pieces and serve it warm. Don’t forget to have extra ranch on the side for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, bacon-filled bite!
Tips for Success
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick filling option.
- Don’t skip the butter on the crust; it adds flavor and crispiness.
- Let the stuffed bread cool for a few minutes before slicing to avoid a messy cut.
- Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- For a healthier version, use whole grain bread and low-fat cream cheese.