Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that combines gooey cheese, tender chicken, and freshly baked bread? Say hello to Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Bread, an Italian-inspired delight that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is not only simple to make but also promises to impress your guests with its irresistible flavors. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you'll wonder why you didn't try this mouthwatering creation sooner. Dive into the recipe and discover how to make your kitchen the heart of deliciousness!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Bread bakes evenly and gets a nice golden crust.
- Prepare the bread by cutting the loaf in half lengthwise. If you prefer, you can also cut off the top of the loaf to create a "lid" for your stuffed bread.
- Using your hands or a spoon, gently hollow out the inside of each half of the bread, leaving about 1 inch of the crust intact. This will create space for the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to mix thoroughly, so the seasoning is evenly incorporated into the filling.
- Stuff the hollowed-out bread halves generously with the chicken and cheese mixture. Press down slightly to ensure that the filling is packed tightly.
- If you cut off the top of the loaf, place it back on top of the stuffed bread. Otherwise, you can leave it open-faced.
- Brush the outside of the stuffed bread with olive oil. This will help create a crispy, golden crust while baking.
- Place the stuffed bread halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
- Slice the Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Bread into individual portions and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best results, opt for a crusty Italian or French loaf. This will hold up well to the stuffing and add a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to get creative with your filling! Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Make sure to taste your filling before stuffing it into the bread. Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your palate for a more flavorful outcome.
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread around the 20-minute mark. You want the cheese to be bubbly and the bread to be a beautiful golden brown.
- Let It Rest: Allow the stuffed bread to cool for a few minutes after baking. This will help the cheese set slightly and make it easier to slice without making a mess.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Pair your Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Bread with marinara sauce or garlic butter for an extra layer of deliciousness that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
