Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread
Looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor? This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread is just what you need! With creamy chive and onion cream cheese, juicy rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and a generous sprinkle of Colby-Jack cheese all stuffed inside a crusty loaf of Italian bread, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, game day, or a comforting meal on a weeknight. It’s cheesy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying!
1 (16-inch) Italian Bread
8 oz Chive and Onion Cream Cheese
1 cup Ranch Dressing
1 1/2 tsp Garlic Salt
1 tsp Onion Powder
3 cups Rotisserie Chicken, chopped
6 slices Bacon, crumbled
3 Green Onions, chopped
3 cups Colby-Jack Cheese, shredded
1 Tbsp Butter, melted
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix cream cheese, ranch, garlic salt, and onion powder.
3. Add chicken, bacon, green onions, and 1 cup cheese.
4. Slice bread, hollow the center, and fill with cheese and mixture.
5. Wrap in foil, bake 30-40 mins. Open for 5 mins to crisp.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 399 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect stuffed bread every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the softened chive and onion cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic salt, and onion powder until smooth. Fold in the chopped rotisserie chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and one cup of the shredded Colby-Jack cheese. Set the mixture aside. Take your 16-inch Italian bread loaf and use a serrated knife to cut a deep “V” shape along the top, removing a long wedge of the soft interior bread to create a deep trough. Be careful not to cut through the bottom or sides. Spoon the chicken and cheese filling generously into the hollowed-out bread. Top with the remaining two cups of shredded cheese. Brush the exposed edges of the bread crust with the melted butter for extra crispness and color.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed bread is a hearty meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. For a complete spread, serve it with a crisp garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It also goes perfectly with a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. For game day, slice it into one-inch pieces and arrange on a platter with carrot sticks, celery sticks, and extra ranch dressing for dipping. A side of pickles or a tangy coleslaw also provides a nice flavor contrast.
How-to Summary
In short: Mix cream cheese, ranch, and seasonings. Fold in chicken, bacon, onions, and some cheese. Hollow out a loaf of Italian bread, fill it with the mixture, and top with remaining cheese. Brush with butter, wrap in foil, and bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, opening the foil at the end to crisp the top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. You can assemble the stuffed bread completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What can I use instead of rotisserie chicken? Leftover grilled or baked chicken breast works perfectly. You’ll need about 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F until warm and crispy to maintain texture.
Can I use a different type of bread? A sturdy French baguette or a sourdough boule are excellent substitutes. Adjust baking time slightly for different sizes.
Is there a way to make this lighter? You can use light cream cheese, light ranch dressing, and reduced-fat cheese. The flavor will still be delicious, though slightly less rich.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not over-hollow the bread; leave a sturdy wall (about 1/2 inch) on all sides so the loaf doesn’t collapse under the filling. Second, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature so it blends smoothly with the ranch without lumps. Third, do not skip the final step of opening the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. This is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy top instead of a soggy one. Finally, let the bread rest for 5-10 minutes after baking before slicing. This allows the cheesy filling to set slightly for cleaner cuts.
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread is the ultimate comfort food that is deceptively simple to prepare. Its combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch makes it a guaranteed hit for any occasion. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can easily master this impressive and delicious centerpiece dish. Enjoy the compliments from your family and friends!