Description
Culinary magic unfolds with chicken bacon ranch stuffed bread, blending creamy ranch, crispy bacon, and tender chicken in a golden Italian bread canvas. Rich flavors and hearty ingredients promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon
- 1 loaf Italian bread
Cheese and Dairy:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
Seasonings and Extras:
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect browning.
- Slice the Italian bread lengthwise without cutting completely through, creating a boat-like structure that will cradle the savory filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, ranch dressing, minced garlic, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt until thoroughly blended.
- Generously stuff the bread cavity with the chicken-bacon mixture, ensuring even distribution and pressing gently to compact the filling.
- Drizzle melted butter over the stuffed bread, allowing it to seep into the crevices and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Wrap the stuffed bread loosely in aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and create a steamy environment for even cooking.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the top turns golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the filling to set and prevent burning.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
- Slice into thick portions and serve warm, allowing the melted cheese and savory filling to be the star of this indulgent appetizer or main dish.
Notes
- Use low-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon for a lighter version that reduces overall calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
- Replace ranch dressing with Greek yogurt mixed with herbs to boost protein and cut down on processed ingredients.
- Gluten-sensitive guests can swap Italian bread for gluten-free alternatives like cauliflower bread or lettuce wraps for a diet-friendly adaptation.
- Vegetarian option works by substituting chicken and bacon with roasted mushrooms, bell peppers, and plant-based protein crumbles for a similar texture and umami profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-32 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg