Introduction
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread is the ultimate comfort food that will have everyone singing your praises! Each cheesy, savory bite is packed with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich ranch dressing creates a filling that will leave you wanting more, all enveloped in a warm, crusty French bread.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Stuffing:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- For the Bread:
- 1 loaf of French bread
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, and green onions until well combined.
3. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise, and hollow out the inside to create room for the filling.
4. Stuff the chicken mixture into the bread evenly, making sure every nook and cranny is filled with goodness.
5. Brush the melted butter on top of the bread and sprinkle with dried parsley for a bit of flair.
6. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Slice up the bread, serve while warm, and watch it disappear!
Nutritional Information
Per serving, this cheesy delight offers:
Calories: Approximately 310 kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sodium: 650mg
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, and chopped green onions until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the French Bread
Slice the French bread in half lengthwise and hollow out the inside to create room for the filling.
Step 4: Stuff the Bread
Stuff the chicken mixture into the bread evenly, making sure every nook and cranny is filled with goodness.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
Brush the melted butter on top of the bread and sprinkle with dried parsley for a bit of flair.
Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Bread
Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Slice up the bread, serve while warm, and watch it disappear!
Notes
Tip on Chicken
You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Tip on Bacon
For extra flavor, consider using smoked bacon.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a side salad or vegetable sticks for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Shredding Chicken
To shred cooked chicken, use two forks to pull apart the meat into bite-sized pieces. This technique helps to create an even texture for your stuffing.
Crisping Bacon
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy, then remove it from the pan and let it drain on paper towels. This will enhance the flavor and ensure a satisfying crunch in your dish.
Mixing Stuffing
When combining the stuffing ingredients, make sure to fold them together gently. This will help maintain the texture of the chicken and bacon while ensuring all flavors are evenly distributed.
Preparing the Bread
Hollow out the French bread carefully using a serrated knife. Make sure not to cut all the way through the bottom, leaving a sturdy base for the stuffing.
Brushing with Butter
Brush melted butter generously over the top of the stuffed bread. This not only adds flavor but helps to create a golden, crispy exterior during baking.
Baking for Perfection
Keep an eye on the stuffed bread as it bakes. Look for the cheese to melt and bubble, which indicates it’s done. A light golden color on the bread will also signal readiness.
FAQ
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken is a great option as it saves time; just ensure it is shredded before mixing with other ingredients.
What type of bread is best for stuffing?
A sturdy loaf of French bread or Italian bread works best, as it can hold the filling without becoming soggy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake the bread when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
You can substitute ranch dressing with a homemade version or any creamy dressing of your choice, such as blue cheese or Caesar.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and are best eaten within 2-3 days. Reheat in an oven for best results.
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread is simple to make, flavorful, and guaranteed to please any crowd, making it an ideal option for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy the delicious combination of chicken, bacon, and cheese in every comforting bite!
