Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli. Bursting with savory flavors and wrapped in a golden, flaky crust, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Dive into this tantalizing recipe, accompanied by FAQs, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions to cater to diverse tastes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches in size.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread ranch dressing evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the ranch dressing, followed by crumbled bacon, diced chicken, sliced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Roll the Stromboli: Starting from one of the long sides of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log, similar to rolling a cinnamon roll. Pinch the ends and seams to seal in the filling.
- Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg. Brush the surface of the rolled stromboli with the egg wash. This will give the stromboli a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Bake: Transfer the rolled stromboli to a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam side down. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Pizza Dough Options: You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience, or you can make your own homemade pizza dough if preferred. Experiment with different types of dough, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, to suit dietary restrictions.
- Customize Fillings: Feel free to customize the fillings according to your taste preferences. Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. You can also swap out the chicken for cooked sausage or pepperoni for a different twist.
- Sauce Options: While ranch dressing adds a delicious creamy flavor to this stromboli, you can also use marinara sauce or barbecue sauce as alternative options.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the pizza dough with a low-carb or keto-friendly dough alternative made from almond flour, coconut flour, or cauliflower. Use a homemade or store-bought keto-friendly ranch dressing and ensure that the bacon is sugar-free. Opt for low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb version, use a thin layer of almond flour or coconut flour dough for the crust. Limit the amount of ranch dressing used and choose low-carb fillings such as cooked chicken, bacon, and cheese. Skip high-carb vegetables like onions and use keto-friendly options like green onions or bell peppers instead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this stromboli ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the stromboli ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze the stromboli? A: Yes, this stromboli freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use different meats in this recipe? A: Absolutely! You can use cooked sausage, pepperoni, or even ham instead of chicken in this recipe. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of meats and cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a mouthwatering fusion of flavors that will delight your taste buds with every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner with family or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at a party, this dish is sure to impress. With its crispy crust, creamy ranch dressing, savory chicken, and crispy bacon, it’s a comfort food classic that’s hard to resist. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade stromboli straight from your oven!
