Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This savory dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped in a golden, flaky dough. The origins of stromboli can be traced back to the United States, where Italian immigrants sought to create a portable version of their beloved pizza. Over the years, variations have emerged, and the Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli has become a beloved staple for family dinners, game days, and casual gatherings.

What makes Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli so irresistible is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the salty crunch of bacon, while the ranch dressing adds a creamy richness that ties everything together. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly convenient to make, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for more!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Filling

1. **Cook the Chicken**: If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, you can either boil, grill, or bake it until fully cooked. I usually prefer grilling for that smoky flavor. Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. 2. **Cook the Bacon**: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. 3. **Mix the Filling**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded mozzarella cheese, ranch dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture should be creamy and flavorful, with the ranch dressing binding everything together.

Preparing the Dough

4. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your stromboli will bake evenly and get that perfect golden-brown crust. 5. **Roll Out the Dough**: On a lightly floured surface, take your pizza dough and roll it out into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches. I like to use a rolling pin for this, but you can also use your hands to stretch it out gently. Make sure the dough is even in thickness, about 1/4 inch. 6. **Add the Filling**: Once your dough is rolled out, spread the chicken and bacon filling evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch of space around the edges. This space is crucial for sealing the stromboli later.

Assembling the Stromboli

7. **Roll the Dough**: Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough away from you, keeping the filling tightly packed inside. I like to tuck in the edges as I roll to prevent any filling from spilling out. Once you reach the end, pinch the seam to seal it. 8. **Seal the Ends**: Tuck the ends of the stromboli under to seal them. This helps keep all that delicious filling inside while it bakes. You can also pinch the seams to ensure they are well sealed. 9. **Prepare for Baking**: Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking. Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg. This egg wash will give it a beautiful golden color as it bakes. 10. **Make Slits**: Using a sharp knife, make a few diagonal slits on top of the stromboli. This allows steam to escape while baking and helps the dough cook evenly.

Baking the Stromboli

11. **Bake**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the stromboli is golden brown and the dough is cooked through. I usually check it around the 20-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t over-bake. 12. **Cool Slightly**: Once baked, remove the stromboli from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling time allows the filling to set a bit, making it easier to slice.

Serving the Stromboli

13. **Slice and Serve**: Using a sharp knife, slice the stromboli into 1-inch pieces. I like to serve it warm, with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. You can also sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. 14. **Enjoy**: Gather your friends or family around and enjoy this delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli! It’s perfect for game day, a cozy dinner, or even as a fun appetizer for a gathering.

Storage Tips

Conclusion:

In summary, the Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch dressing wrapped in a golden, flaky crust creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or even swapping out the chicken for turkey or a meat-free alternative for a vegetarian option. I encourage you to give this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli a go! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to the table. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your own variations and how it turned out for you. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations on social media and tag your friends to inspire them to try this delightful recipe too. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is destined to become a family favorite! Print