Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread combines the comforting flavors of creamy ranch, tender chicken, crisp bacon, and melty cheese all stuffed into a crusty loaf of Italian bread. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a decadent and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to more festive gatherings.
Ingredients
1 (16-inch) loaf Italian Bread
1 (8 oz) package 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
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Ranch dressing, garlic salt, and onion powder until smooth.
Add the chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.
Cut the Italian bread loaf in half lengthwise and hollow out some bread from the center to create space for the filling.
On the bottom half of the bread, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese. Spread the chicken mixture over the cheese and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Cover with the top half of the bread and press down lightly. Brush the entire loaf with melted butter.
Wrap the stuffed bread in foil and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, until the bread is heated through and the cheese is melted.
Let the bread rest for 5 minutes after baking, then slice into 1-inch thick slices and serve warm.
Notes
- Ingredient Flexibility: This recipe is highly adaptable; you can substitute ingredients based on dietary preferences or availability. For example, any cooked poultry can replace the chicken, and various types of bacon or cheese can be used to alter the flavor profile.
- Preparation Tips: Ensure that the bread is not overly hollowed out to prevent breakages and leaks. Keeping a good amount of crust ensures that the bread maintains its structure after being stuffed and baked.
- Serving Suggestions: Although this dish is hearty on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a side of steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
- Storage Advice: If there are leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the texture of the bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Chicken
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 399 kcal per serving