Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy, and flavorful loaf of bread that’s stuffed with creamy chicken, smoky bacon, and the irresistible zest of ranch dressing. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread is a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course that combines rich flavors with a crispy crust. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or family dinners, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
Rich and Comforting: Packed with chicken, bacon, cheese, and ranch, this bread is the epitome of indulgence.
Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and rotisserie chicken to save time.
Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, party snack, or quick dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread:
1 (16-inch) loaf Italian bread: The perfect vessel for holding the rich filling.
1 tablespoon melted butter: Adds a golden, crispy finish.
For the Filling:
1 (8 oz) package chive and onion cream cheese, softened: Provides a creamy, flavorful base.
1 cup Ranch salad dressing: Adds zesty, herby notes.
1½ teaspoons garlic salt: Enhances the savory flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth to the filling.
3 cups rotisserie chicken, roughly chopped: A convenient, tender protein option.
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Smoky, crispy goodness in every bite.
3 medium green onions, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
3 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided: Melty, cheesy perfection.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet by setting it aside.
- Mix the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine chive and onion cream cheese, Ranch dressing, garlic salt, and onion powder. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Fold in the chopped rotisserie chicken, crumbled bacon, green onions, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix until evenly combined.
- Prepare the Bread
Slice the loaf of Italian bread in half lengthwise.
Hollow out some of the bread from the center of each piece, creating space for the filling. Be careful not to remove too much, as the bread should still be sturdy enough to hold the mixture.
- Assemble the Stuffed Bread
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese on the bottom half of the bread.
Spread the chicken and bacon filling evenly over the cheese.
Top the filling with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Place the top half of the bread back on and press down gently to seal the loaf.
- Add the Final Touches
Brush the entire loaf with melted butter, ensuring the crust gets golden and crispy while baking.
Wrap the stuffed bread tightly in foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake the Bread
Place the foil-wrapped loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is thoroughly heated and the cheese has melted.
For an extra crispy crust, open the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Slice and Serve
Let the stuffed bread rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven.
Slice into 1-inch pieces and serve warm.
Tips + Tricks for Success
Customize the Bread: Use a French baguette or sourdough loaf for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Make Ahead: Assemble the bread up to 12 hours in advance, then bake when ready.
Crispier Bacon: Cook the bacon until very crispy to avoid sogginess in the filling.
Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, sprinkle a little extra Colby-Jack on top before wrapping in foil.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon, and substitute with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
BBQ Twist: Replace Ranch dressing with BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair slices with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve as a hearty appetizer at parties or game days.
Enjoy alongside a bowl of tomato or chicken soup for a comforting dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
Layered Flavors: The combination of chicken, bacon, ranch, and melty cheese is a timeless favorite.
Effortless Prep: Rotisserie chicken and pre-made bread save time without sacrificing quality.
Perfect Texture: Crispy bread, gooey cheese, and creamy filling come together beautifully.
Nutritional Information (Per 1-Inch Slice)
Final Thoughts
Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or indulging in a quiet night at home, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Give it a try, and watch it disappear slice by slice!