Introduction to Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli! It’s a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped in a flaky dough. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying those precious moments with your family.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s not just quick to prepare; it’s also packed with flavors that everyone will love. The combination of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing creates a taste explosion in every bite. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with your favorite veggies or serve it with a side salad for a complete meal. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: Cooked and shredded, this is the star of the show, providing protein and flavor.
- Bacon: Crispy and crumbled, it adds a smoky richness that pairs perfectly with the ranch dressing.
- Ranch dressing: Creamy and tangy, it ties all the flavors together and gives the dish its signature taste.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and gooey, it brings a comforting texture to each bite.
- Pizza dough: You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Egg: Beaten for an egg wash, it gives the stromboli a beautiful golden finish when baked.
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat ranch dressing or whole wheat pizza dough. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Making Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your stromboli bakes evenly. A hot oven helps achieve that golden, flaky crust we all love. So, don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. This filling is where the magic happens! The flavors meld beautifully, creating a savory mixture that will make your taste buds dance.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Next, take your pizza dough and roll it out on a floured surface. Aim for a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. If the dough is too thick, it won’t cook through properly. If it’s too thin, it might tear. So, find that sweet spot! A rolling pin works wonders here, but you can also use your hands if you’re feeling adventurous.
Step 4: Assemble the Stromboli
Now it’s time to assemble! Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, carefully roll the dough from one end to the other, creating a log shape. Make sure to roll it tightly, but not so tight that the filling spills out. Place the stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Bake the Stromboli
Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish. Bake it in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and the dough is cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma, and the crust looks perfectly crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving!
Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F for safety.
- Let the stromboli rest for a few minutes before slicing to prevent filling from spilling out.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- For a crispy crust, place a baking stone in the oven while preheating.
- Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs for extra flavor!
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard one works great, but a pizza stone can enhance crispiness.
- Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking; aluminum foil is a good alternative.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough; a wine bottle can work in a pinch.
- Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do for combining ingredients.
- Pastry brush: Perfect for applying egg wash; a clean paintbrush can substitute.
Variations of Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
- Vegetable Delight: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the filling for a burst of color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your stromboli a fiery twist.
- Cheesy Goodness: Swap out mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or even feta for a different flavor profile.
- Low-Carb Option: Use a cauliflower crust instead of traditional pizza dough for a healthier, low-carb version.
- BBQ Chicken Ranch: Replace ranch dressing with BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken and bacon.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
- Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the stromboli.
- Vegetable Platter: Serve with crunchy veggies and a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
- Drinks: Pair with iced tea or a light white wine for a refreshing touch.
- Presentation: Slice the stromboli into thick pieces and arrange on a platter for a beautiful display.
FAQs about Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stromboli, wrap it tightly, and freeze it before baking. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep!
What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or a platter of crunchy veggies. You can also serve it with extra ranch dressing for dipping, enhancing that creamy flavor.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. It saves time and adds even more flavor to the filling.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore that crispy crust.
Can I customize the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the cheese. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is versatile, so get creative with your ingredients!
Final Thoughts
Making Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments. The joy of pulling a golden, flaky stromboli from the oven fills the kitchen with warmth and excitement. Each slice reveals a delicious blend of flavors that brings smiles to my family’s faces. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this dish is a delightful way to connect over good food. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a cherished recipe in your home, just like it has in mine!
Print
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli: A Delicious Twist You’ll Love!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing wrapped in a golden, flaky dough.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, and mozzarella cheese until well combined.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a rectangle.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other to form a log.
- Place the stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the top with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
- Serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
