Introduction to Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that everyone in the family will love, look no further than Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. This mouthwatering dish combines the savory flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy dough. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving comfort food, this stromboli is sure to satisfy. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about this incredible recipe, from its history and flavor profile to the step-by-step preparation process.
For a detailed guide on classic stromboli recipes, check out this Stromboli Recipe from Allrecipes for tips on perfecting your dough and filling. If you’re in the mood for something even more indulgent, take a look at Southern Bite’s Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli for an easy-to-follow recipe.
History and Evolution of Stromboli
The stromboli has an intriguing history that traces back to the United States, where it was created by Italian immigrants in the 1950s. Though inspired by traditional Italian calzones, the stromboli was designed to be a more portable, versatile dish, making it an ideal choice for picnics, lunchboxes, or casual dinners. Over the years, variations of stromboli have popped up, with different fillings and sauces transforming the dish into countless options.
One such variation that has gained immense popularity is the Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. Combining the classic comfort foods of chicken, bacon, and ranch, this stromboli version offers a creamy, savory taste with a crispy exterior. It has quickly become a fan favorite in many households, and it’s easy to see why—who wouldn’t love this combination of rich flavors?
To elevate your stromboli game, check out The Recipe Critic’s Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli for another take on this delicious creation.
Understanding the Chicken Bacon Ranch Flavor Profile
The chicken bacon ranch flavor profile is an incredibly popular one. It’s a deliciously savory combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. The creamy ranch brings a tangy, herby kick that complements the richness of the chicken and bacon perfectly.
- Chicken: The star of the dish, chicken adds a lean protein base that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- Bacon: Bacon brings that irresistible salty, smoky crunch to the dish.
- Ranch Dressing: The creamy dressing adds flavor depth with its tangy herbs and spices, making this combination truly unique.
These three ingredients come together to form a balanced and indulgent filling, perfect for stuffing into pizza dough or calzone dough for a handheld treat.
Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Before you begin preparing your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients:
- Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Chicken breast (cooked and shredded)
- Bacon (crispy and crumbled)
- Ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
Optional Ingredients for Customization:
- Green onions (for added crunch and flavor)
- Garlic powder (for an extra depth of flavor)
- Italian seasoning (to enhance the taste of the dough)
- Tomatoes or spinach (to add some freshness)
The combination of these simple yet flavorful ingredients will create a mouthwatering filling that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli from scratch is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you prepare a delicious, golden, and crispy stromboli with the irresistible combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch.
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stromboli bakes evenly and reaches the perfect golden brown color.
2. Prepare the Dough
If you’re using store-bought dough, simply unroll it onto a lightly floured surface. Make sure the dough is flat and evenly spread out to form a rectangular shape, which will be the perfect base for your filling.
If you’re making dough from scratch, roll it out into a rectangle about 12 inches by 10 inches. Don’t worry about perfection — a slightly uneven shape won’t affect the outcome. A rolling pin is helpful for getting an even thickness.
3. Cook the Chicken and Bacon
- Chicken: Cook the chicken breasts until they’re fully cooked (you can use a skillet, grill, or bake them). Once cooked, shred the chicken into small bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Bacon: In a separate pan, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, crumble it into small pieces. This crispy bacon will add that essential crunch to the stromboli.
4. Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- Shredded chicken
- Crumpled crispy bacon
- Ranch dressing (about ½ cup, or more if you like it extra creamy)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 to 1½ cups)
Mix everything thoroughly until the chicken, bacon, cheese, and ranch are well combined. This creamy, savory mixture will form the heart of your stromboli.
5. Assemble the Stromboli
- Place the filling evenly over the prepared dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges to prevent it from spilling out.
- Carefully roll the dough from one end to the other, tucking in the edges as you go to seal the filling inside. You should end up with a long, cylindrical shape.
- Pinch the ends of the stromboli tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
6. Bake the Stromboli
Place the assembled stromboli onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will make cleanup easier and ensure the stromboli doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and crispy. If you want an extra golden crust, brush the top of the stromboli with a little melted butter about halfway through baking.
7. Serve
Let the stromboli rest for a few minutes after baking. Then, slice it into 1-inch thick slices and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or extra ranch dressing.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli that’s crispy on the outside and loaded with savory flavor on the inside. Enjoy!
Variations and Customizations
The great thing about Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is that it’s incredibly customizable. Here are a few ideas for making it your own:
- Substitute ingredients: You can swap out the chicken for turkey, or use a combination of different cheeses, such as provolone or gouda.
- Add veggies: Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
- Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, consider adding jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to your filling.
This recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.For a homemade Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Serving Suggestions
While your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli will undoubtedly be the star of the meal, you can complement it with some tasty sides to complete your dinner. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- A fresh green salad: A crisp salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the stromboli.
- French fries or potato wedges: Crispy potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover ranch dressing or marinara sauce.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
While Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is undoubtedly delicious, it’s important to be aware of its nutritional content. Here’s a basic breakdown:
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 calories per serving, depending on the portion size.
- Fat: A significant amount of fat comes from the bacon and cheese.
- Protein: Chicken provides a good amount of lean protein.
If you’re looking to make the recipe healthier, consider the following substitutions:
- Use whole wheat dough for added fiber.
- Opt for low-fat ranch dressing and reduced-fat cheese.
- Add more vegetables to increase the fiber and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have when making Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli:
- Can I use store-bought dough instead of homemade?
- Yes! Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe, saving you time.
- How can I make the stromboli spicier?
- Add some jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce into the filling for an extra kick.
- Can I prepare the stromboli in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the stromboli and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What are some vegetarian alternatives to this recipe?
- You can use plant-based bacon and substitute chicken with tofu or vegetables like mushrooms.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner, a party appetizer, or a family meal. With its crispy crust and savory filling, it combines all the flavors you love in one delicious package. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or customizing it with your favorite ingredients, this stromboli is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
For additional recipes and variations, don’t forget to check out the links to other Chicken Bacon Ranch dishes mentioned earlier in the article.