Introduction to Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that pleases everyone. That’s why I absolutely adore this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli! It’s a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped in golden-brown dough. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying those precious moments with your family.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s not just quick to prepare; it’s also packed with flavors that everyone will love. The combination of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing creates a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your family’s tastes, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion!
Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: Cooked and shredded, this is the star of the show, providing protein and flavor.
- Bacon: Crispy and crumbled, it adds a smoky crunch that elevates the dish.
- Ranch dressing: Creamy and tangy, it ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and gooey, it brings a comforting texture to each bite.
- Pizza dough: The perfect vessel for all those tasty fillings, it bakes up golden and flaky.
- Egg: Beaten for an egg wash, it gives the stromboli a lovely golden finish.
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using turkey bacon or a low-fat ranch dressing. All ingredient quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your stromboli bakes evenly. A hot oven helps achieve that golden-brown crust we all love. So, don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. This filling is where the magic happens! The flavors meld beautifully, creating a savory delight that will have your family asking for seconds.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Next, take your pizza dough and roll it out on a floured surface. Aim for a rectangle shape, about 12 inches long. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour. Rolling it out evenly is key to ensuring every bite is filled with that delicious filling!
Step 4: Assemble the Stromboli
Now it’s time to assemble! Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about an inch around the edges. Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the ends to seal it well. This step is like wrapping a present—make sure it’s secure so all that tasty filling stays inside!
Step 5: Bake the Stromboli
Place your stromboli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with the beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish. Bake it in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and the kitchen smells heavenly. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the stromboli cool for a few minutes before slicing. This is important! If you cut it too soon, the filling might ooze out. After a short wait, slice it up and serve it warm. Trust me, the anticipation will make each bite even more delicious!
Tips for Success
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
- Don’t overfill the stromboli; it can burst during baking.
- Let the dough rest for a few minutes if it’s too elastic.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a twist.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard one works, but a pizza stone can give you a crispier crust.
- Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking; aluminum foil can be a substitute.
- Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do for combining ingredients.
- Rolling pin: A wine bottle can work in a pinch!
- Pastry brush: Use a clean paintbrush if you don’t have one.
Variations of Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
- Vegetable Delight: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach for a burst of color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Cheesy Goodness: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or even a blend of your favorites for a cheesy explosion.
- Low-Carb Option: Use a cauliflower crust instead of pizza dough for a healthier, low-carb version.
- BBQ Chicken Ranch: Replace ranch dressing with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken and bacon.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
- Pair with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with extra ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping.
- Complement with a side of sweet potato fries for a hearty meal.
- Enjoy with a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic time-saver. It’s convenient and still delivers that delicious homemade taste. Just follow the package instructions for rolling and baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture!
Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the cooled stromboli tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, some crispy fries, or even a side of veggies. You can also serve it with extra ranch dressing for dipping!
Can I make this stromboli ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the filling and roll the stromboli in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
Final Thoughts
Making Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories with your loved ones. The joy of pulling a golden, flaky stromboli from the oven, the aroma wafting through the house, and the smiles on your family’s faces as they take that first bite—priceless! This recipe is a delightful way to bring everyone together, even on the busiest of nights. Plus, with its endless variations, you can keep it fresh and exciting. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the delicious journey of making this comforting dish!
Print
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli: A Must-Try Easy Recipe!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing wrapped in a golden-brown dough.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 package of pizza dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, and mozzarella cheese.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a rectangle.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the ends to seal.
- Place the stromboli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the top with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
- Serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
