Introduction
If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful meals that come together with ease, Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is the perfect recipe to try. Combining the savory flavors of chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, this stromboli will make for an excellent family meal or party snack. It’s essentially a stuffed pizza roll with layers of deliciousness, making it a go-to comfort food for busy nights.
This recipe uses pre-made pizza dough to simplify the process, but it doesn’t skimp on taste. It’s crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with a balance of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients with Quantities
To make this tasty Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (pre-made, about 11 oz.)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Direction and Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so that it’s ready for the stromboli. Ensuring the oven reaches the right temperature before baking is key to achieving that perfect golden brown crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle. This provides the base for your stromboli. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could make your own pizza dough from scratch, but using pre-made dough saves time and effort without compromising taste.
Step 3: Spread the Ranch Dressing
Once your dough is rolled out, spread 1/2 cup of ranch dressing evenly over the dough. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges so it’s easier to seal the stromboli later. The ranch adds a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Step 4: Layer the Fillings
Now for the good stuff! Layer the shredded chicken, crumbled turkey bacon, and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the ranch-dressed dough. These ingredients will meld together in the oven, creating a gooey, savory filling that contrasts wonderfully with the crispy crust.
Step 5: Roll the Stromboli
Starting from the long side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough up like a jelly roll. Be sure to tuck in the ends as you go to prevent the fillings from spilling out during baking. The goal is to create a neat, sealed roll of dough packed with tasty ingredients.
Step 6: Brush and Season
Place the stromboli seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. To add extra flavor and a beautiful golden finish, brush the top with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Then, sprinkle garlic powder and dried parsley evenly over the top of the roll. The garlic and parsley will enhance the flavor, while the butter helps achieve that golden crust.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the stromboli in your preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once the stromboli is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut and prevents the cheese from spilling out. Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the stromboli into servings, revealing the melty cheese and savory fillings inside.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is now ready to be served! Whether as a snack, appetizer, or main course, this stromboli is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
FAQs
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon? Yes! If you prefer the taste of regular bacon, you can substitute it for turkey bacon. Just keep in mind that regular bacon is fattier, so you may want to drain the fat after cooking it to avoid making the stromboli too greasy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the stromboli and keep it in the fridge, unbaked, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and follow the instructions as written.
What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese? Mozzarella is a classic choice for stromboli because it melts beautifully, but you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. The key is to use a cheese that melts well and complements the flavors of the chicken and bacon.
Can I freeze the stromboli? Yes! Stromboli freezes quite well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
How can I customize the fillings? The beauty of stromboli is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can swap out or add different ingredients to suit your preferences. For example, you could add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also use other meats like ham or pepperoni in place of chicken.
What side dishes pair well with stromboli? Stromboli is quite filling on its own, but if you want to serve it as part of a larger meal, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a bowl of tomato soup also make great sides for a cozy, comforting meal.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and satisfying combination of flavors in every bite. It’s easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a game day snack, or a party appetizer. With crispy crust, gooey cheese, savory chicken, and the smoky goodness of turkey bacon, this stromboli delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to tweak the fillings to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll likely find yourself adding it to your regular meal rotation!