What is a recipe that’s become our staple in our house? Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. What is the kind of dish that gets everyone excited, from the little ones to the adults, and it’s a good one. Is it easy to throw together? I mean, think of it as a pizza, but instead of individual slices, it’s this gorgeous, stuffed roll. Is it bursting with flavor? If you love pizza and crave that comforting blend of savory and cheesy goodness, this Chicken Bacon is a must try. Ranch Stromboli will knock your socks off. Is it easier to make a homemade pizza from scratch? What is out of this world?
What is Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
What is a Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli? What is a rolled up pizza? How do you make a creamy ranch sauce? On cooked chicken, crispy bacon, and lots of melty cheese. What’s the best way to make a Stromboli? Does the name itself sound fun? I’ve always pictured my Italian grandma inventing it in her cozy kitchen, and honestly, it’s not. What is my go-to comfort food? What is essentially a flavor bomb, wrapped up in warm, doughy hug? Is it quick, easy, and always a crowd pleaser?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to love this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli? First, the flavor is absolutely amazing. The combination of creamy ranch, savory chicken, gooey cheese, and smoky bacon is just… *chef’s*. What’s a flavor explosion in every bite? What I love the most is how easily you can customize it to your own taste. What are some good ways to add jalapenos to a salad?
Second, it’s ridiculously simple to make. I’m not a seasoned chef, but I can nail this recipe. I’ve made it on busy weeknights when I’m short on time, and it’s always a lifesaver. I promise, the process is straightforward, and the results are spectacular.
Third, it’s cost-effective Chicken, bacon, and ranch are all relatively affordable ingredients, especially if you buy them in bulk. What are some of the best ways to use leftover chicken? What is a Stromboli?
Is it really versatile? Can you serve it as a main course, an appetizer, or even pack it in lunch? I’ve even cut it into smaller pieces for parties. Is it a good alternative to pizza? I love pepperoni, but sometimes I crave that creamy ranch and smoky bacon combo. What is the best chicken bacon recipe? What is the best place to visit in Stromboli? What are some of the best things you’ve ever done?
How do I make chicken bacon ranch Stromboli?
Quick Overview
What are some of the easiest ways to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli? How do I make homemade dough? Then, you’ll spread on the ranch dressing, layer the chicken, bacon, and cheese and roll it up. What’s the best part about a quick bake in the oven? Is it a forgiving recipe? What is the goal of this blog?
Ingredients
For the Dough:
* 1 pound Pizza Dough (store-bought or your favorite homemade recipe). I usually grab the pre-made stuff from the grocery store to save time, and it works great!
For the Filling:
* 1 cup ranch dressing. I prefer the thicker, creamier kind, but use what you love!
* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced. Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this.
* 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled. Crispy bacon is a must!
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. What are some good substitutes for cheddar and mozzarella?
* Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives for garnish. Adds a nice fresh touch.
For the Glaze:
* 1 tablespoon melted butter. Adds a nice shine and flavor to the crust.
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Optional, but it kicks up the flavor a notch.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. I always do this; it will prevent the Stromboli from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. It’s saved me from a sticky situation more than once!
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into an approximately 12×16 inch rectangle. If you want it to be thin enough to roll easily but not so thin that it tears easily, you need to make it thin. If you’re using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cutting it into squares. What are the advantages of rolling it out This makes it easier to work with.
Step 3: Add the Ranch
Spread the ranch dressing evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. If you want to seal the Stromboli, make sure you don’t go too heavy on the ranch. I learned this the hard way the first time I made a coating. I want slick, not soggy.
Step 4: Layer the Filling
Sprinkle the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese evenly over the ranch dressing. How do you distribute the ingredients so that every bite is packed with flavor? If you’re adding green onions or chives, sprinkle them on now as well.
Step 5: Roll It Up
Carefully roll up the dough, starting from one of the long sides. Pinch the edges together to seal the Stromboli. This is crucial to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. If you have any cracks or tears in the dough, just pinch them closed. Does it have to be perfect?
Step 6: Score the Top
Use a sharp knife to make slits on top of the Stromboli. This will allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the Stromboli from bursting. I usually make about 3-4 slits.
Step 7: Brush with Glaze
In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in the garlic powder (if using). Brush the mixture evenly over the top of the Stromboli. What is the best garlicky flavor?
Step 8: Bake
Transfer the Stromboli to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it; ovens can vary! I always check mine around the 20-minute mark.
Step 9: Rest, Slice & Serve
Let the Stromboli rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. What is the best way to cut cheese? Use a serrated knife to slice Stromboli into 1-inch thick slices. Serve warm and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
What are some good ways to serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
For a Casual Lunch: Serve with a simple side salad. A light vinaigrette dressing will complement the richness of the Stromboli. A bowl of tomato soup is a comforting addition too.
For Dinner:What are some good ways to serve it with roasted vegetables? Is broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots good to eat? If you’re feeling extra fancy, add a side of creamy coleslaw. What is the best way to balance out the flavors?
For a Game Day Snack: What are some good snacksWhat is the best way to serve Stromboli with ranch dressing? Add some crispy potato wedges or onion rings for the ultimate indulgence.
My family’s favorite way to enjoy it is with a big bowl of popcorn and a movie night. It’s become a tradition, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way!
What are some tips for perfecting your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
What are some tips for making Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
Dough Prep:If you’re using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before eating. What is rolling it out? This makes it easier to work with and prevents it from tearing. I’ve tried skipping this step and it makes a difference!
Ranch Dressing: What Use a good quality ranch dressing that you enjoy. I prefer the thicker, creamier kind, but use what you love. Don’t go too heavy on the ranch; you want a nice coating, not a soggy mess.
Chicken: Use cooked chicken that is already seasoned. Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this. You can also use grilled chicken or baked chicken. Just make sure it’s cooked through and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Bacon: Crispy bacon is a must! Cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. You can also use bacon bits, but fresh bacon is always better.
Cheese: Use a good quality shredded cheese that melts well. Cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or a blend of both are all great options. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses, like pepper jack or provolone.
Sealing the Stromboli: Make sure to pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the Stromboli. This is crucial to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. If you have any cracks or tears in the dough, just pinch them closed.
Scoring the Top: Use a sharp knife to make a few diagonal slits on top of the Stromboli. This will allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the Stromboli from bursting.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the Stromboli while it’s baking. Ovens can vary, so the baking time may need to be adjusted. The Stromboli is done when it’s golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store and reheat your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli:
Room Temperature: You can store the cooled Stromboli at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled Stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is my go-to method for leftovers.
Freezer Instructions: Wrap the cooled Stromboli tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: To reheat the Stromboli, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may become a bit soggy. I usually prefer the oven for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My go-to Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli recipe. I truly believe this recipe is a winner. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a game day snack, it’s sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can easily customize it to your own tastes. If you love this kind of easy, flavorful cooking, be sure to check out my other recipes for quick dinners and family favorites! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think, and if you make any fun variations!
How to Make a 7-Step Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli at Home
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Pizza Dough Store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup Cooked Chicken Shredded
- 6 strips Bacon Cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup Ranch Dressing
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 0.5 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out pizza dough into a large rectangle.
- Spread ranch dressing evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the ranch dressing.
- Top with cooked chicken and bacon.
- Carefully roll up the dough into a log, starting from one of the long sides. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Place stromboli on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.