Description
Savory chicken bacon ranch stuffed bread delivers comfort in every delectable slice, combining zesty ranch, crispy bacon, and tender chicken. Guests will devour this crowd-pleasing appetizer that promises irresistible flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 4–5 strips)
Cheese and Dairy:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Base and Garnish:
- 1 large French bread loaf or Italian bread
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Carefully slice off the bread loaf’s top and scoop out the interior, creating a hollow vessel that will cradle the flavorful filling.
- In a mixing bowl, thoroughly blend shredded chicken with ranch dressing, ensuring a creamy and well-coated mixture. Incorporate shredded cheese, crispy crumbled bacon, and finely chopped green onions, stirring until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Methodically spoon the chicken mixture into the bread cavity, pressing and distributing the filling to create an even layer that reaches all corners of the bread boat.
- Craft a savory garlic butter by whisking melted butter with garlic powder until smooth and fragrant. Generously brush the butter across the bread’s exterior surface and along its edges, promising a golden, crisp finish.
- Transfer the stuffed bread to the prepared baking sheet, positioning it carefully to ensure even heat distribution. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for the cheese to melt completely and the bread to transform into a crispy, golden masterpiece.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let rest briefly. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant touch. Slice into hearty portions and serve immediately while the bread remains warm and the filling is succulent.
Notes
- Customize the bread choice for gluten-free diets by using a gluten-free loaf or hollowing out a large bell pepper for a low-carb alternative.
- Swap ranch dressing with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative to accommodate lactose-intolerant or vegan preferences.
- Enhance protein content by adding extra shredded chicken or incorporating diced ham for additional flavor variety.
- Prep ahead by assembling the stuffed bread earlier and refrigerating until ready to bake, which saves time during meal preparation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg