Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 lb store-bought pizza dough (or homemade dough)
- Flour, for dusting
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (plus extra for dipping)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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, about 12×16 inches.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Stromboli:
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Carefully roll up the dough, starting from one long side, to form a log. Pinch the edges to seal and tuck the ends under to seal them as well.
- Add the Topping:
- Transfer the rolled stromboli to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the top of the stromboli with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, dried parsley, and Parmesan cheese if using.
- Bake the Stromboli:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the stromboli is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve:
- Slice the stromboli into individual servings. Serve warm with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
Origin Story of Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is a modern twist on the classic Italian stromboli, which has its roots in the U.S. The traditional stromboli is an Italian-American creation, named after the 1950s film Stromboli, which starred Ingrid Bergman. The stromboli is essentially an Italian-style rolled pizza, filled with various meats, cheeses, and vegetables, and then baked to perfection.
The specific combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch in a stromboli reflects a blend of American flavors and preferences. The concept of incorporating ranch dressing—a popular condiment in American cuisine—into a stromboli began to gain traction in the 2000s. Ranch dressing, with its creamy and tangy flavor, complements a variety of ingredients, making it a natural fit for a variety of dishes.
The addition of bacon to the stromboli further enhances its appeal. Bacon, often considered a quintessentially American ingredient, adds a smoky, savory element that pairs well with the chicken and ranch dressing. This combination likely originated from a desire to create a comforting, flavorful dish that combines some of the most beloved ingredients in American cuisine.
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli has become popular in various settings, from family dinners to casual gatherings and even as a game-day treat. Its blend of flavors and ease of preparation make it a favorite among home cooks and restaurant menus alike. This modern iteration of the stromboli showcases how traditional dishes can be adapted to fit contemporary tastes and ingredients, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal that continues to win over fans.
