There’s something irresistibly comforting about the flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing. This delicious combo brings a homey, warm feeling to any meal. Now, imagine these flavors wrapped in a golden, crispy crust. That’s the Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli, a perfect dish for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or just a hearty snack. I can still remember the first time I made this stromboli on a crisp autumn evening, with the aroma of baking dough and sizzling bacon filling the house. Seeing my family’s expressions of delight as they took their first bites made it an instant hit in our home. This recipe quickly became a favorite—not just for its delicious taste, but also for its simplicity and flexibility.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and incredibly rewarding. It also allows for plenty of creativity with different substitutions and additions, making it versatile enough to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Let’s jump into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for this delightful Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli.
Ingredients:
Instructions
Prepare for Baking
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is ready when it’s time to bake.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Roll Out Dough
Dust the Surface: Lightly dust your work surface with all-purpose flour to keep the dough from sticking.
Roll the Dough: Using a rolling pin, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle roughly 1/4 inch thick, ensuring an even thickness for uniform baking.
Add Toppings
Spread the Ranch Dressing: Evenly spread the ranch dressing over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This will help seal the stromboli when rolled.
Layer the Chicken and Bacon: Sprinkle the cooked, diced or shredded chicken evenly over the ranch dressing. Follow with the chopped bacon, spreading uniformly.
Add Cheese and Green Onions: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and bacon. If using green onions, add them now for an extra burst of flavor.
Roll and Seal
Roll the Dough: Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the dough into a log, ensuring it’s tight and the filling stays inside.
Seal the Edges: Pinch the seams and ends of the dough to seal the stromboli, keeping the filling contained during baking.
Prepare for Oven
Place on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to maintain its shape and prevent it from unraveling.
Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the top with olive oil for a beautiful golden color and slight crispiness.
Sprinkle with Parmesan: Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and a deliciously cheesy crust.
Cut Slits for Steam: Using a sharp knife, cut a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape and prevent the dough from getting soggy.
Bake
Bake the Stromboli: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbly. Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
Serve
Rest and Slice: Once baked, let the stromboli rest for a few minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly, making slicing easier.
Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, slice into thick pieces. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful blend of chicken, bacon, ranch, and melted cheese.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about cooking is adapting recipes to fit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some variations and substitutions for this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken and bacon with an array of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach, or use vegetarian bacon or chicken alternatives.
Spicy Twist: Add some heat by incorporating sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Sauce Swap: If ranch dressing isn’t your favorite, try using barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, or even a classic marinara sauce as the base.
Whole Wheat Dough: For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pizza dough instead of regular dough.
Conclusion
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a scrumptious dish that combines the comforting flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch in a crispy crust. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish, party appetizer, or a satisfying snack, this stromboli is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. The combination of creamy ranch, savory chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor experience that’s hard to resist.
Not only is this stromboli delicious, but it’s also fun to make. Rolling out the dough, layering the ingredients, and watching it bake to perfection is satisfying and rewarding. With the various substitutions and variations available, you can customize this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to make a dish that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process of creating and sharing this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli, and savor the wonderful flavors with every bite.
