Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that combines three favorites: chicken, bacon, and ranch? My Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a step-by-step guide, you’ll create a delicious meal that’s sure to delight. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb of cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, chopped
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup ranch dressing
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Topping and Dipping
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Marinara sauce for dipping
– Presentation tips for serving
To make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli, gather these tasty ingredients. The main items include shredded chicken, crispy bacon, mozzarella cheese, and ranch dressing. These create a rich, flavorful filling. The additional ingredients add color and nutrition. Fresh spinach and diced bell pepper bring a nice crunch. Garlic and onion powders add depth to the taste.
For the dough, you can use store-bought pizza dough or make your own. Both work well and save time.
Don’t forget the egg wash! It gives the stromboli a golden finish. Marinara sauce is perfect for dipping. This dish is not only fun to make but also a hit at the dinner table. You can find the Full Recipe to guide you through the steps. Enjoy creating this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
– In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, mozzarella cheese, ranch dressing, chopped spinach, diced bell pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Assembling the Stromboli
– On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
– Spread the chicken filling evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch of space around the edges.
– Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough over the filling to create a tight log shape. Pinch the edges to seal the stromboli completely.
Baking the Stromboli
– Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg to give it a golden brown finish when baked.
– Use a sharp knife to make a few slits on the top of the stromboli to allow steam to escape.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
– Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
This recipe is simple and fun. You can enjoy it warm, with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Try using rotisserie chicken for a quick, tasty option!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
– Use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. This saves time and gives a rich taste.
– Ensure you adequately seal the stromboli to prevent filling leakage during baking. Pinch the edges well to keep everything inside.
Flavor Enhancements
– Consider adding different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor. These cheeses melt well and create a tasty blend.
– Experiment with vegetables like mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for variations. They add color and nutrition to your dish.
Serving Suggestions
– Slice thick for hearty servings. This makes each piece filling and satisfying.
– Serve with garnishes such as chopped parsley or extra ranch dressing. These add a fresh touch and extra flavor.
For the full recipe, check the details above. Enjoy your cooking!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change some ingredients in your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli to suit your taste. Here are a couple of swaps to consider:
– Substitute chicken with turkey or sausage for a different protein. Turkey offers a leaner option, while sausage brings a savory depth.
– Use whole wheat or gluten-free pizza dough for those with dietary needs. Whole wheat adds fiber, and gluten-free dough keeps it accessible for all.
Flavor Profile Adjustments
Adjusting the flavors can take your stromboli to the next level. Here are some ideas:
– Add spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to the filling. These spices will enhance the taste and make every bite exciting.
– Replace ranch dressing with buffalo sauce for a spicy kick. This swap gives your stromboli a bold, fiery flavor that heat lovers will adore.
Seasonal Ingredients
Using seasonal ingredients can keep your dish fresh and fun. Here’s what to try:
– Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers during the summer. These veggies add color and nutrition to your stromboli.
– During the fall, consider using pumpkin puree mixed with ranch for a seasonal twist. This combination adds richness and a hint of sweetness that is perfect for cooler weather.
Feel free to explore these variations to find your own perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli! For the full recipe, check out the main article.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
– Allow the stromboli to cool completely before storing.
– Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate.
I find that letting it cool helps keep the bread’s texture. If you don’t cool it, steam builds up inside the wrap. This can make the bread soggy.
Reheating Instructions
– Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain crispiness.
– Microwave can be used but may lead to a softer texture.
When I reheat, I preheat the oven to about 350°F (175°C). This keeps the outside crunchy. If you use a microwave, cover the stromboli with a damp paper towel. This can help keep it moist, but the crust may not be as crispy.
Freezing Options
– Can be frozen before baking or after being fully cooked.
– Use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.
I often freeze my stromboli before baking. This way, I can bake it fresh later. If you choose to freeze it after baking, let it cool completely first. Then wrap it well to keep it fresh.
FAQs
How do I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli from scratch?
To make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli from scratch, follow these steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the chicken, bacon, cheese, ranch dressing, spinach, bell pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Spread the filling on the dough, leaving space at the edges.
5. Roll the dough tightly and pinch the edges to seal.
6. Place it seam-side down on a baking sheet.
7. Brush with the beaten egg and make slits on top for steam.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
9. Let cool a few minutes before slicing.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe. It saves time and still tastes great. Just roll it out and fill it as you would with homemade dough.
Is Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer. This makes it easy for quick meals later. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a side salad for a complete meal. These pairings add flavor and freshness to your dish. Enjoy your delicious creation!
This blog post covered how to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli using simple steps and fresh ingredients. Start with cooked chicken and bacon, mix them with cheese and ranch, then wrap it all in dough. Make it your own with additional flavors or ingredients!
In the end, you can enjoy a delicious meal that’s easy to store or reheat. Give it a try, and have fun experimenting with different tastes!
