Savory Chicken Bacon Ranch (Printer-Friendly)
Hollowed Italian bread stuffed with creamy chicken, bacon, ranch, and melted cheese for a pull-apart delight.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Bread
01 -
1 sturdy crusty Italian bread loaf (about 400 grams)
→ Dairy and Dressings
02 -
113 grams chive and onion cream cheese, softened
03 -
60 ml bottled ranch dressing
04 -
113 grams shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided
05 -
28 grams unsalted butter, melted
→ Meats
06 -
230 grams rotisserie chicken, chopped
07 -
113 grams thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
→ Produce and Seasonings
08 -
30 grams green onions, chopped
09 -
1 teaspoon garlic salt
10 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and position a baking sheet on the center rack for even heat and support.
02 -
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with ranch dressing, garlic salt, and onion powder until smooth. Fold in chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, green onions, and one-third of the shredded cheese until combined.
03 -
Using a serrated knife, slice the loaf lengthwise and carefully remove the soft inner crumb from both halves, leaving a sturdy shell to hold the filling.
04 -
Sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheese evenly over the bottom bread half. Spread the chicken filling over it, then top with another one-third of the cheese. Replace the top half and gently press down.
05 -
Brush melted butter generously over all bread surfaces, including cut edges and seams. Wrap the loaf tightly in aluminum foil to retain moisture.
06 -
Place wrapped loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 to 40 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted. Uncover and bake an additional 5 minutes to crisp the crust to golden brown.
07 -
Allow the loaf to rest for 5 minutes to set the filling, then slice into 1-inch thick pieces. Serve immediately for optimal gooey texture.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
To maximize cheese melt and flavor, shred your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded.
02 -
Fresh green onions enhance freshness and sharpness; avoid wilted stalks.
03 -
Leftovers reheat well in a hot oven to maintain crisp crust; avoid microwaves to prevent sogginess.