Chicken Ranch Stromboli

Chicken Ranch Stromboli is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory flavors, tender chicken, creamy ranch dressing, gooey melted cheese, and crispy golden dough. It’s the perfect blend of a pizza roll and a hearty stuffed sandwich, making it an excellent meal for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or even an impressive party appetizer. The beauty of a stromboli lies in its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite meats, cheeses, and veggies to create the ideal dish that suits your taste.

This Chicken Ranch Stromboli is incredibly easy to prepare, using store-bought pizza dough for convenience, and it delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the hassle. Packed with juicy chicken, flavorful bacon, ranch dressing, and melted mozzarella cheese, this stromboli is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will devour. Slice it up and serve it with a side of dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic butter, and you’ve got a winning dish perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, serving up a fun appetizer for a party, or simply craving something warm, cheesy, and comforting, Chicken Ranch Stromboli will quickly become your go-to recipe. Let’s explore how to make this flavorful, easy-to-assemble dish step-by-step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Family Favorite: The combination of chicken, ranch dressing, bacon, and cheese makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
2. Quick and Easy: Using store-bought pizza dough saves time, and the recipe comes together in under an hour.
3. Customizable: You can add your favorite fillings like veggies, different cheeses, or spices to make it your own.
4. Perfect for Events: It’s an excellent choice for potlucks, game days, or dinner parties since it’s easy to slice and share.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the stromboli ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Serving Size: 1–2 slices

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 390 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Stromboli

• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or grilled)
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For Serving

• Additional ranch dressing for dipping
• Marinara sauce (optional)
• Garlic butter (optional for brushing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. Set the mixture aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, approximately 12×14 inches. Make sure the dough is even and not too thick, as this helps it bake evenly. Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Stromboli

Spread the chicken and ranch mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon on top of the chicken.

Step 5: Roll and Seal

Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, similar to rolling a jelly roll. Pinch the edges and ends of the dough to seal the stromboli tightly, ensuring the filling doesn’t leak during baking. Place the stromboli seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg to create a golden crust. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and a bit more dried parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Step 7: Bake

Place the stromboli in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the stromboli from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This makes it easier to slice. Use a sharp knife to cut the stromboli into slices. Serve warm with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or garlic butter for dipping.

Ingredient Background

Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe, as it’s flavorful and quick to use. Grilled or leftover baked chicken are also excellent options.

Ranch Dressing: This creamy, tangy dressing adds bold flavor to the filling. Use store-bought ranch or make your own for a fresher option.

Bacon: Crumbled, cooked bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy ranch and cheese. Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option.

Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we all love in strombolis. Feel free to mix in cheddar or provolone for added flavor.

Pizza Dough: Store-bought pizza dough is convenient and works well in this recipe. If you prefer homemade dough, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time.

Technique Tips

• Even Rolling: Roll the dough evenly to avoid thick or undercooked areas. A rolling pin makes this step easier.
• Sealing the Edges: Pinch the edges tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
• Resting Before Slicing: Allow the stromboli to cool slightly before slicing to ensure clean, even cuts.
• Golden Crust: The egg wash helps achieve a beautifully golden and crispy crust.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Chicken Ranch Stromboli: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
2. BBQ Chicken Stromboli: Replace the ranch dressing with barbecue sauce and use cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella.
3. Buffalo Chicken Stromboli: Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
4. Veggie-Loaded Stromboli: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration

Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain the crispy texture.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the baked stromboli tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tip

Reheat stromboli in the oven to preserve its crispy crust. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soft and soggy.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Game Day Appetizer: Serve bite-sized slices of stromboli with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, garlic butter, or ranch dressing. Arrange the slices on a large platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, ensuring they’re a hit at any tailgate or sports gathering.

Family Dinner: Pair the warm, cheesy stromboli with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a complete and balanced meal. The hearty flavors of the stromboli make it an ideal main dish that will leave everyone satisfied.

Potluck Favorite: Bring the stromboli whole to a potluck or gathering. Slice it fresh on-site to showcase the gooey melted cheese and savory chicken filling. Provide small cups of dipping sauces like ranch or marinara so guests can enjoy a variety of flavors. It’s an easy-to-transport and guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Lunch Option: Pack slices of stromboli in lunchboxes along with a small container of marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of protein-packed chicken and cheesy goodness makes it a filling and fun lunch option for kids and adults alike. Add fresh fruit or a side of veggies for a well-rounded meal.

Special Equipment

Rolling Pin: Helps roll the pizza dough evenly into a smooth rectangle, ensuring the filling is distributed consistently and the dough bakes uniformly.

Baking Sheet: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet prevents any spillage from the filling during baking and allows for even heat distribution, creating a perfectly crispy crust. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying an even coat of egg wash to the top of the stromboli. The egg wash ensures a golden, glossy crust that looks and tastes irresistible.

Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing the baked stromboli into clean, even pieces. A serrated knife works especially well for cutting through the crisp crust without squishing the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, homemade dough works great! Just make sure to roll it evenly and let it rest if needed.

2. Can I prepare the stromboli ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the stromboli, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours before baking.

3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the edges firmly to seal.

4. Can I make this stromboli vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken and bacon for sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

5. What other cheeses can I use?
Cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack are excellent alternatives to mozzarella.

6. How do I reheat stromboli without it getting soggy?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to keep the crust crispy.

7. Can I freeze unbaked stromboli?
Yes! Assemble and wrap it tightly before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

8. How do I serve stromboli for a crowd?
Slice into smaller pieces and serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic butter.

Conclusion

Chicken Ranch Stromboli is the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and convenience. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner, a party appetizer, or a game-day snack, it’s sure to impress with its savory combination of tender chicken, creamy ranch, smoky bacon, and melted cheese. The crispy golden crust adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite irresistible.

With easy-to-follow steps, simple ingredients, and plenty of customization options, this recipe is one you’ll come back to time and time again. Serve it warm with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch it disappear from the table in minutes!

Try this Chicken Ranch Stromboli today and enjoy a delicious, shareable meal that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Your family and guests will thank you!

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