Savory Chicken Bacon Ranch (Printer-Friendly)
Italian bread filled with chicken, bacon, ranch, and melty cheese for a golden, crispy, savory loaf.
# What You'll Need:
→ Bread
01 -
1 sturdy bakery-style Italian loaf
→ Filling
02 -
120 g (4 oz) chive and onion cream cheese, softened
03 -
120 ml (4 fl oz) bottled ranch dressing
04 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
05 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 -
200 g (7 oz) rotisserie chicken, chopped
07 -
115 g (4 oz) thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
08 -
60 g (1/2 cup) green onions, chopped
09 -
150 g (1 1/2 cups) shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided
10 -
30 g (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and position a baking sheet on the center rack to ensure even heat distribution.
02 -
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ranch dressing, garlic salt, and onion powder until smooth. Gently fold in chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and one-third of the shredded cheese; mix until evenly combined.
03 -
Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the Italian loaf lengthwise then hollow out the soft interior from both halves, leaving a sturdy shell to contain the filling without collapsing.
04 -
Sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheese evenly over the bottom bread half. Spoon the filling mixture on top, spreading it evenly. Add another third of the cheese over the filling, then place the top bread half over it and press gently to secure.
05 -
Brush melted butter generously over all sides of the loaf, including cut edges and seams. Wrap the entire loaf tightly in aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
06 -
Place the foil-wrapped loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until heated through and cheese fully melted. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp the crust to a golden brown.
07 -
Allow the loaf to rest for 5 minutes to set the filling, then slice into 1-inch thick pieces and serve immediately for a gooey, pull-apart experience.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat best in a hot oven to maintain crispness. Freeze individual slices for convenient future meals.
02 -
Shred your own cheese for optimal melt and flavor. Use fresh green onions for brightness.