Cooking method
Let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these easy steps for a loaf that’s sure to impress.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and have a baking sheet ready for the bread.
- In a medium mixing bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, Ranch dressing, garlic salt, and onion powder until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, green onions, and 1 cup of the cheese—make sure everything is well combined.
- Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise and hollow out some of the bread from the center of each half to create space for your filling.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese on the bottom half of the bread, then spread the filling mixture evenly over it.
- Top with the remaining cup of cheese.
- Press the top half of the bread down over the filling gently to seal it.
- Brush melted butter on all sides of the loaf and wrap it in foil.
- Place the wrapped loaf on the baking sheet and bake it for 30-40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Open the foil for the last 5 minutes to get a crispy crust on the outside.
- Allow it to rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Best ways to enjoy it
The beauty of Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread lies in its versatility! Serve it hot from the oven with a side of crisp salad or steamed vegetables. It pairs beautifully with a light ranch dip on the side to complement the flavors further. You might even consider slicing it into appetizer portions for game days or gatherings!
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy later, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, wrap any extra properly and store it for up to one month. Just note—it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Helpful cooking tips
- Cream Cheese Softening: Remember to bring your cream cheese to room temperature before starting. It mixes more easily and guarantees a smoother filling.
- Bacon Choices: While this recipe calls for crumbled bacon, feel free to use turkey bacon for a lighter option or even a plant-based bacon alternative if you’re vegan.
- Extra Crunch: For added texture, throw some crushed tortilla chips into the filling for a delightful crunch with every bite!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations you could try:
- Substitute the Colby-Jack cheese with pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Swap the ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing for a more robust flavor.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra zing or fresh spinach for a nutritional boost.
FAQs
How long does it take to make this dish?
From start to finish, you’ll spend about an hour creating this delicious stuffed bread.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and hollow out the bread a day in advance. Simply assemble and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, cashew cream or a soft vegan cheese spread can easily replace the cream cheese.
Is it safe to freeze the stuffed bread?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and enjoy it within a month.
Dive into this delectable Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread recipe, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your home cooking lineup!
