If you’re craving a dish that blends savory flavors with comforting textures, look no further than this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped in a golden brown crust. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it alongside a fresh salad or enjoying it on its own, this stromboli is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to personalize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. With each bite bursting with flavor and satisfaction, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is guaranteed to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken for the best texture.
- Crispy Bacon: About six slices of cooked bacon add crunch and flavor; chop them into small pieces.
- Ranch Dressing: Use about half a cup of your favorite ranch dressing for creamy richness throughout the dish.
- Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience or make your own from scratch.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese works great for melty goodness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, ranch dressing, and shredded cheese until well blended.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle shape about half an inch thick.
Step 4: Fill the Dough
Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the dough, leaving some space around the edges.
Step 5: Roll It Up
Starting from one end of the rectangle, carefully roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seams closed to seal.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown
Transfer the stromboli onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional ranch dressing for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the chicken in ranch dressing before cooking
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken, bacon, and ranch mixture in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You may also roll out the dough and keep it covered in the fridge for up to one day before assembling.
- Storing: Leftover Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer, where it will last for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the stromboli and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but this may result in a softer crust.
Suggestions for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making a delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. Avoid pre-packaged or frozen components, as they can compromise the flavor and texture of your dish. Fresh vegetables, high-quality chicken, and crispy bacon will enhance the overall taste. Make sure to check the expiration dates on dairy products like cheese and ranch dressing, as these can significantly impact the final dish. Additionally, opt for freshly made pizza dough rather than store-bought options whenever possible. This small change can elevate your stromboli from good to great.
Don’t Overfill Your Stromboli
One common mistake when preparing Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is overfilling it with ingredients. While it’s tempting to add extra chicken, cheese, or vegetables, doing so can lead to a messy outcome. When you stuff too much filling into the dough, it becomes difficult to roll up neatly. This can also result in the stromboli bursting during baking, causing a loss of flavor and presentation. Aim for a balanced ratio of filling to dough; this will not only improve the look but also enhance the taste.
Allow Dough to Rest
Many people overlook the importance of allowing their dough to rest before rolling it out. Resting the dough gives gluten time to relax, resulting in a more pliable texture that’s easier to work with. If you skip this step, your dough may shrink back when you try to roll it out, making it harder to create an even shape for your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. Allow at least 30 minutes of resting time after kneading your dough; this ensures that it rolls out smoothly and holds its shape during baking.
Bake at the Right Temperature
Baking your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli at the right temperature is essential for achieving that golden-brown crust while ensuring all fillings are cooked properly. A common error is either underbaking or overbaking the stromboli. For optimal results, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake until golden brown—usually about 20-25 minutes depending on thickness and filling density. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure that the internal temperature reaches a safe level for chicken (165°F or 74°C).
FAQs
What is Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a delicious stuffed bread filled with chicken, crispy bacon, ranch dressing, and cheese. Originating from Italian cuisine, strombolis are similar to calzones but typically feature a rolled-up shape filled with savory ingredients. This particular version combines tender chicken breast with smoky bacon and creamy ranch flavors wrapped in pizza dough for a comforting meal or snack option that’s perfect for sharing.
Can I use different fillings in my Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
Absolutely! One of the best aspects of making Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is its versatility. You can easily customize fillings based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. Feel free to substitute grilled vegetables for chicken or even add extra cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for added richness. Just remember not to overfill your stromboli; balance between fillings ensures a well-cooked final product.
How do I store leftover Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
To store leftover Chicken Bacon properly, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage—up to three months works well if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. To reheat, simply place it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring you retain that crispy crust.
Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing Chicken Bacon ahead of time is entirely feasible and can save you time during busy days. You can assemble the stromboli and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, after assembling but before baking, you could freeze it as well—just remember that you’ll need additional baking time if cooking from frozen.
Conclusion for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
In summary, making a fantastic Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli involves several key steps: using fresh ingredients, avoiding overfilling your dough, allowing proper resting time for the dough, and ensuring correct baking temperatures are all critical elements for success. By following these suggestions, you will create a flavorful dish that delights everyone at your table. Whether you’re enjoying this meal as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering with friends and family, this stromboli is sure to impress with its savory blend of tastes wrapped in golden-brown crusty goodness.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped in a golden-brown pizza dough crust. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings and can be made in just 30 minutes. Packed with customizable ingredients, each bite bursts with flavor, making it a family favorite. Serve it warm with an extra drizzle of ranch dressing for an added touch of deliciousness. Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside a fresh salad, this stromboli delivers satisfying taste and texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 slices crispy bacon, chopped
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella and cheddar blend)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, ranch dressing, and shredded cheese.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough edges.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log shape and seal the seams.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown; let cool slightly before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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