Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli

This cheesy chicken bacon ranch stromboli transforms basic ingredients into an irresistible meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The combination of melty cheese, savory chicken, and crispy bacon all wrapped in a golden crust creates a dish that disappears fast whenever I serve it.

I first created this stromboli when looking for creative ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Now my teenagers request it weekly and even their pickiest friends clean their plates when this is served.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: provides the perfect vessel for all the fillings. Store bought works perfectly but homemade adds extra flavor if you have time
• Mozzarella cheese: creates that essential gooey stretch when you take a bite. Use low moisture for best melting
• Cooked chicken: adds hearty protein. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully and saves time
• Crispy bacon: brings smokiness and texture contrast. Cook it until just crisp for best results
• Ranch dressing: acts as both flavor enhancer and moisture provider. Choose a high quality brand for best results
• Melted butter: gives the crust a beautiful golden finish and rich flavor
• Dried oregano: adds that classic Italian touch that brings everything together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This temperature creates the perfect environment for achieving a golden crust while ensuring all the fillings heat through properly. Allow at least 10 minutes for your oven to fully preheat.

Prepare the dough:

Dust your work surface generously with flour to prevent sticking. Roll the pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 14x10 inches. The dough should be thin enough to roll easily but thick enough to contain the fillings without tearing about 1/4 inch thick works well.

Apply the base layer:

Spread the ranch dressing evenly across the dough surface leaving a 1 inch border around all edges. This border will help seal your stromboli when rolling. The ranch acts as both flavor and moisture for the filling.

Layer the fillings:

Distribute the shredded mozzarella evenly over the ranch layer ensuring it covers most of the surface. Follow with an even layer of shredded chicken and then sprinkle the crumbled bacon across the top. Pressing gently on the fillings helps keep them in place during rolling.

Roll and seal:

Starting with the long edge closest to you carefully roll the dough away from your body creating a tight cylinder shape. When you reach the opposite edge pinch the seam firmly to seal it completely. Also fold and pinch the ends to prevent filling from escaping during baking.

Prepare for baking:

Transfer your stromboli to a parchment lined baking sheet with the seam side facing down. Brush the entire surface generously with melted butter which will create a beautiful golden crust. Finish by sprinkling dried oregano evenly across the top for additional flavor.

Bake to perfection:

Place the stromboli in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Watch for a deep golden brown color and listen for a hollow sound when tapped which indicates the dough is fully cooked through.

Rest and serve:

Allow the finished stromboli to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This critical step lets the cheese set slightly so it doesnt all run out with the first cut. Slice into 1 to 2 inch portions using a serrated knife for cleanest cuts.

Save This

The bacon truly makes this dish special in my kitchen. I discovered years ago that precooking it until just barely crisp rather than fully crunchy creates the perfect texture once baked inside the stromboli. My daughter who claimed to dislike bacon completely changed her mind after trying this recipe.

Make Ahead Options

This stromboli works beautifully as a prepared ahead meal. You can assemble the entire stromboli wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook simply remove from refrigerator let stand at room temperature for 20 minutes then brush with butter and bake as directed adding about 5 extra minutes to the cooking time. The flavors actually develop nicely during the rest in the refrigerator making this a great option for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Dont have chicken available? Turkey roast beef or even pepperoni work wonderfully as alternatives. For a vegetarian version replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms bell peppers and spinach. The cheese can be varied too try provolone cheddar or a Italian blend for different flavor profiles. Even the ranch can be swapped for pesto alfredo sauce or a thin layer of marinara if you prefer. When my sister visited with her dairy sensitive child I successfully made a version using dairy free cheese and it was still delicious.

Serving Suggestions

While this stromboli stands perfectly on its own adding a few complementary sides elevates it to a complete meal. I love serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. For heartier appetites a cup of tomato soup makes an excellent pairing. For entertaining slice the stromboli into thinner portions and serve with small bowls of warm marinara sauce for dipping. During football season I often make two varieties and arrange them on a large wooden board with olives pickles and sliced vegetables for a casual grazing setup that always impresses.

Common Queries

→ What kind of chicken works best?

Cooked, shredded chicken from rotisserie, grilled, or baked chicken breast brings the most flavor and tenderness.

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely. Both store-bought and homemade dough work well, so choose whichever fits your time and preference.

→ How do I get a golden, crispy crust?

Brush melted butter over the rolled dough before baking. Baking at 400°F ensures a golden, crisp finish.

→ Are there variations for fillings?

You can swap in turkey or ham for chicken, or add sautéed peppers, onions, or a different cheese blend for new flavors.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Once cooled, store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best texture.

→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble and chill before baking. Bake right before serving for the freshest taste and crispiness.