Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Stromboli recipe. Bursting with the savory goodness of shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a blend of melted cheeses, all wrapped in golden-brown pizza dough, this stromboli is the ultimate comfort food indulgence. Whether served as a hearty dinner or sliced into appetizer-sized portions for entertaining, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup baby spinach, optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Prepare the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches in size.
- Layer the Fillings:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Layer the cooked shredded chicken and crumbled bacon over the cheese.
- Optionally, add a layer of baby spinach leaves for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Add Additional Cheeses:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the filling ingredients.
- Season and Roll:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over the filling ingredients.
- Roll Up the Stromboli:
- Starting from one long edge, carefully roll up the stromboli, jelly-roll style, to enclose the filling. Pinch the seams and ends to seal.
- Brush with Egg Wash:
- Place the rolled stromboli seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top and sides of the stromboli with the beaten egg to give it a golden-brown finish when baked.
- Bake in the Oven:
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stromboli is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Cool and Slice:
- Remove the stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into thick slices.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Stromboli warm, accompanied by marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Customize the Fillings: Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences. Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or your favorite pizza toppings for additional flavor and texture.
- Make it Spicy: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version. Load up on veggies like bell peppers, onions, and olives for a satisfying meat-free option.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use different types of cheese? A: Yes, you can use any combination of cheeses you prefer. Experiment with different flavors such as provolone, Gouda, or pepper jack to suit your taste.
Q: Can I make the stromboli ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the stromboli ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover stromboli slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through before serving.
Q: Can I freeze unbaked stromboli? A: Yes, you can freeze unbaked stromboli for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Treat your taste buds to the irresistible flavors of our Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Stromboli, a satisfying and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its golden-brown crust, gooey melted cheese, and flavorful fillings, this stromboli is sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed for dinner, lunch, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this dish is guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the savory goodness of this homemade stromboli creation!