There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing. It’s a trifecta of flavors that brings a sense of home and warmth to any meal. The Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli takes this beloved combination and wraps it in a golden, crispy crust, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a hearty snack. I remember the first time I made this stromboli; it was a chilly autumn evening, and the house was filled with the irresistible aroma of baking dough and sizzling bacon. The smiles on my family’s faces as they took their first bite were unforgettable. This dish quickly became a staple in our home, not only for its delicious taste but also for its simplicity and versatility.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. It allows room for creativity with various substitutions and additions, ensuring that it can cater to different tastes and dietary needs. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and detailed steps to create this delightful Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of your favorite pizza dough, either store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup of cooked, diced or shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup of cooked and chopped bacon
- 1/2 cup of ranch dressing
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions (optional)
- Olive oil for brushing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- All-purpose flour for dusting
Instructions
Prepare for Baking
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when it’s time to bake the stromboli.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent the stromboli from sticking.
Roll Out Dough
Dust the Surface: Lightly dust your work surface with all-purpose flour to prevent the dough from sticking.
Roll the Dough: Using a rolling pin, roll the pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Aim for an even thickness to ensure consistent baking.
Add Toppings
Spread the Ranch Dressing: Evenly spread the ranch dressing over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This border will help seal the stromboli when rolled.
Layer the Chicken and Bacon: Sprinkle the cooked, diced or shredded chicken breast evenly over the ranch dressing. Follow with the chopped bacon, distributing it uniformly.
Add Cheese and Green Onions: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the chicken and bacon. If you’re 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. Take your time to ensure the filling stays inside and the roll is tight.
Seal the Edges: Pinch the seams and ends of the dough together to seal the stromboli. This will help keep the filling contained during baking.
Prepare for Oven
Place on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This position helps maintain its shape and prevents it from unraveling.
Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the top of the stromboli with olive oil. This step adds a beautiful golden color and a slight crispiness to the crust.
Sprinkle with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the 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 of the stromboli. These slits allow steam to escape, preventing the dough from becoming soggy.
Bake
Bake the Stromboli: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbly. The exact baking time may vary, so keep an eye on the stromboli to avoid overbaking.
Serve
Rest and Slice: Once baked, remove the stromboli from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, slice the stromboli into thick pieces. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of chicken, bacon, ranch, and melted cheese.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to adapt recipes to suit personal preferences and dietary needs. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try with this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken and bacon with an array of vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also use vegetarian bacon or chicken alternatives.
Spicy Twist: Add a kick to your stromboli by incorporating sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Sauce Swap: If you’re not a fan of ranch dressing, try using barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, or even a classic marinara sauce as the base.
Whole Wheat Dough: For a healthier option, use whole wheat pizza dough instead of the regular variety.
Conclusion
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch in a crispy, golden crust. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a party appetizer, or a satisfying snack, this stromboli is sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of creamy ranch, savory chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
Not only is this stromboli delicious, but it’s also a joy to make. The process of rolling out the dough, layering the ingredients, and watching it bake to perfection is satisfying and rewarding. Plus, with the various substitutions and variations available, you can tailor this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dish that will become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli, and savor the wonderful flavors with every bite.
