Indulge in the savory delight of Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread, a mouthwatering combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing encased in a crusty Italian loaf. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, game days, or a comforting meal at home.
Why This Recipe Appeals
- Flavorful Combination: The classic trio of chicken, bacon, and ranch offers a rich and satisfying taste experience.
- Cheesy Goodness: Melted Colby-Jack cheese adds a gooey texture that complements the savory filling.
- Easy Preparation: Utilizing rotisserie chicken and pre-made ranch dressing simplifies the cooking process, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Ingredients
- 1 (16-inch) Italian bread loaf
- 8 oz chive and onion cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1½ teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken, roughly chopped
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 3 cups Colby-Jack cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic salt, and onion powder. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, green onions, and 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
2. Prepare the Bread
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the Italian loaf in half lengthwise and hollow out the center of each half, creating space for the filling while leaving enough bread to support it.
3. Assemble the Stuffed Bread
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese on the bottom half of the bread.
- Evenly spread the chicken and bacon mixture over the cheese layer.
- Top the filling with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Place the top half of the bread over the filled bottom half and press gently to secure.
4. Bake
- Brush the entire loaf with melted butter to enhance browning and flavor.
- Wrap the stuffed loaf in foil and place it on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted. For a crispier crust, open the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
5. Serve
- Allow the bread to rest for 5 minutes before slicing into 1-inch pieces.
- Serve warm, accompanied by a fresh salad or soup if desired.
Possible Variations
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the filling for added heat.
- Vegetable Addition: Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach to the filling for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a different taste profile.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 8 servings
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30–40 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Wrap leftovers tightly in aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet, and heat for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed bread, wrap it in foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Adjust the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
2. What can I serve alongside this stuffed bread?
It pairs well with a fresh garden salad, tomato soup, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the bread.
3. Can I use a different type of bread?
A French baguette or sourdough loaf can be used as alternatives; ensure the loaf is large enough to hold the filling.
4. Is there a substitute for chive and onion cream cheese?
Plain cream cheese can be used; consider adding fresh chives and a bit of onion powder to mimic the flavor.
5. How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and ranch dressing, and opt for turkey bacon to lower the calorie and fat content.
6. Can I freeze the stuffed bread?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the bread and filling may be compromised upon thawing.
7. What if I don’t have Colby-Jack cheese?
A blend of Monterey Jack and mild cheddar can be used as a substitute.
8. How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
Ensure the filling is not overly moist and avoid overfilling the bread. Baking uncovered for the last few minutes can help crisp up the crust.
9. Can I add herbs to the filling?
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the flavor; add them to the filling mixture before baking.
