Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread is a bold and irresistible combination of spicy buffalo chicken and gooey melted mozzarella, all encased in a soft, crusty loaf of bread. This dish is perfect for those who love a savory snack or appetizer with a bit of heat. The creamy ranch dressing balances the spiciness of the buffalo sauce, creating a delicious contrast. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to be a crowd favorite for game days, parties, or casual dinners.
Ingredients
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1 large loaf of bread
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2 cups shredded cooked chicken
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1/2 cup buffalo sauce
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1/2 cup ranch dressing
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
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Slice the top off the bread loaf and hollow out the center, leaving a thick border around the edges.
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In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce and stir until the chicken is well coated.
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Stuff the chicken mixture into the hollowed bread, pressing it down slightly to fit it all in.
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Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the chicken mixture.
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Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Once out of the oven, drizzle with ranch dressing and garnish with chopped parsley.
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Slice the stuffed bread into portions and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 15 minutes
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Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Add Vegetables: You can incorporate finely chopped celery or green onions into the chicken mixture for added texture and flavor.
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Spicy Options: If you want more heat, increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add a dash of hot sauce.
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Cheese Variety: While mozzarella is perfect for this recipe, you can also use cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
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Make it a Meal: Turn this stuffed bread into a more filling meal by adding some cooked bacon or shredded lettuce inside for a crunch.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Reheat the stuffed bread in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is warmed through and the bread is crisp again.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and will work perfectly in this recipe.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble the bread and bake it just before serving to ensure the bread stays crisp and the cheese melts beautifully.
3. How can I make this dish less spicy?
If you prefer a milder version, use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and increase the ranch dressing.
4. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, while a soft loaf of bread works best, you can also use a baguette or ciabatta for a different texture. Just ensure the bread can hold the stuffing without falling apart.
5. Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread?
It is not recommended to freeze the entire stuffed bread, as the bread may become soggy when reheated. However, you can freeze the chicken filling and bake the bread fresh when needed.
6. Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add extra mozzarella or other cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese for a richer flavor.
7. Can I serve this as a main course?
Yes, this dish can easily be served as a main course, especially if paired with a side salad or some fresh vegetables.
8. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You could substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein, like shredded tofu or a vegetarian buffalo chicken substitute, to make it vegetarian.
9. Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free loaf of bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
10. Can I use homemade ranch dressing instead of store-bought?
Yes, homemade ranch dressing can work wonderfully and add an extra layer of freshness to this recipe.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread combines the satisfying flavors of buffalo chicken with the comfort of melted cheese and soft bread. Whether as an appetizer or a quick dinner, it’s a dish that brings bold, delicious flavors to the table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s an excellent choice for a crowd-pleasing meal. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven for a warm, cheesy, and flavorful experience!
[tasty-recipe id=”19877″]