This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is the ultimate comfort food, blending the flavors of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a blend of cheeses, all wrapped in a golden, flaky pizza dough. Ideal for a family dinner or as a game day favorite, this stromboli is both filling and delicious. Serve with a side of ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping, and watch as it becomes a hit with everyone at the table.
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a delicious, hearty dish that draws inspiration from classic Italian-American flavors. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a gooey mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, all wrapped in a golden, flaky pizza dough. The addition of ranch dressing gives the stromboli a tangy, creamy taste that perfectly complements the savory filling. It's an excellent choice for a family dinner or a game day treat, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience.
INGREDIENTS
- Chicken breast: 1 pound, cooked and shredded
- Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Ranch dressing: 1/2 cup, creamy and tangy
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon, for brushing the dough
- Pizza dough: 1 pound, rolled out to 12x16 inches
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon, for seasoning
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon, for seasoning
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon, for seasoning
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground
- Egg: 1, beaten for egg wash
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing. Mix until well combined.
- Step 3:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 12x16 inches in size.
- Step 4:
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and black pepper over the filling.
- Step 5:
- Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other, pinching the edges to seal and creating a log shape. Transfer the rolled stromboli to the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 6:
- Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg. This will give it a golden, crispy finish.
- Step 7:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the stromboli is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Step 8:
- Let the stromboli cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the stromboli with extra ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Helpful Notes
- You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the filling for a healthier twist.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- For an extra crispy crust, brush the dough with a mixture of olive oil and garlic before adding the filling. - Chef Mario Batali
How to Perfect Your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Achieving the perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli involves a few key techniques. First, make sure your chicken is well-seasoned and not too dry before combining it with the other ingredients. Cooking the bacon until it's just crispy ensures it adds the right amount of crunch without overpowering the other flavors. When rolling the dough, take care to keep the filling evenly distributed and avoid overfilling, which can lead to messy baking. Finally, using an egg wash not only helps seal the edges but also gives the stromboli a beautiful golden color that enhances its presentation.
Why This Stromboli Is a Must-Try Dish
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is more than just a convenient meal—it's a flavor-packed creation that brings together the best elements of comfort food. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, all enveloped in soft, golden pizza dough, makes it a satisfying choice for any occasion. The ranch dressing adds a creamy, tangy note that ties the whole dish together, making each bite irresistible. Whether you're making it for a casual family dinner or serving it as a snack for a big game, this stromboli is sure to be a hit.
FAQs
Can I prepare this stromboli ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stromboli and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's going straight from the fridge to the oven.
What other meats can I use?
You can substitute the chicken with turkey, ham, or even ground beef for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this stromboli gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pizza dough and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What sides go well with stromboli?
This stromboli pairs well with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of tomato soup.
Summary
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli combines the rich flavors of seasoned chicken breast, crispy bacon, and two types of melted cheese, all generously coated in ranch dressing. Wrapped in a golden, crispy pizza dough, this dish is perfect for serving at a family dinner or enjoying during a game day event. The combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses creates a gooey, delicious center, while the garlic, onion powder, and oregano add a burst of flavor to each bite. The stromboli is brushed with an egg wash before baking, giving it a beautiful, golden crust that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Serve it warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.