If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor, this Stuffed Chicken Bacon Chive Bread Loaf is a must-try! Perfect for family gatherings, game days, or a cozy night in, this recipe combines savory shredded chicken, crispy bacon, fresh chives, and gooey cheese—all packed into a rustic bread loaf. It’s comfort food at its best, and the creamy sauce drizzle takes it to a whole new level! Get ready for your kitchen to smell amazing as you bake this delicious treat.
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Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Bread Loaf
This recipe brings together everything you love in one bite: cheesy, savory, and crispy goodness. Here’s why it’s sure to become a favorite:
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or an indulgent meal for two.
- Versatile: Swap out ingredients to fit your taste—like switching cheeses or adding veggies.
- Quick and Easy: Prepped in just 15 minutes and baked to perfection in 30, it’s a simple yet impressive dish.
- Comfort Food: Warm, cheesy, and crispy—this loaf delivers comfort in every bite.
The Taste: Crispy, Cheesy, and Packed with Flavor
Imagine pulling a golden-brown loaf from the oven, its crispy crust filled with creamy chicken, bacon, chives, and bubbling cheese. The smell alone will have your mouth watering! Each bite offers a satisfying combination of textures: the crunch of the bread, the melty cheese, and the savory goodness of chicken and bacon. The chives add a hint of freshness, while the creamy garlic sauce gives the final drizzle of decadence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Stuffed Bread:
- 1 large loaf of rustic bread (baguette or ciabatta work best)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works best)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Spatula for spreading the filling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to create this cheesy masterpiece? Follow these steps:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, slice your bread loaf in half lengthwise to create two long halves.
2. Hollow Out the Bread
Carefully hollow out both halves, leaving about 1/2 inch of bread along the edges to form a pocket for the filling. Save or discard the bread you remove—it’s perfect for making homemade croutons or breadcrumbs later!
3. Prepare the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped chives, and shredded cheese. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, and Dijon mustard (if using). Pour this mixture over the chicken and bacon mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff the Bread
Stuff each half of the bread with the chicken, bacon, chive, and cheese mixture. Press the filling down gently to pack it in tightly.
5. Bake
Place the stuffed bread halves on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
6. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
While the bread bakes, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Serve
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Slice and serve warm for the ultimate savory experience!
What to Serve with Your Stuffed Bread Loaf
This stuffed bread loaf is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with these sides to make it extra special:
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus add a healthy and colorful touch.
- Soup: A light tomato or vegetable soup pairs beautifully for a comforting meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect Stuffed Bread Loaf
- Choose the Right Bread: A rustic, crusty loaf like ciabatta or a baguette works best for holding the filling without becoming soggy.
- Pack the Filling: Press down the filling firmly to make sure every bite is filled with cheesy, savory goodness.
- Avoid Soggy Bread: Drizzling olive oil over the top and baking until golden helps keep the crust crispy.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed loaf and keep it in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different cheese?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach work wonderfully in this recipe.
What can I do with the leftover bread from hollowing out the loaf?
Turn it into croutons! Cut into cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
Conclusion
There you have it—Stuffed Chicken Bacon Chive Bread Loaf, a dish that combines the best of comfort food with a gourmet twist. Perfect for parties, cozy dinners, or when you want to impress your loved ones, this recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a meal or serving it as an appetizer, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Craving more delicious recipes like this one? Be sure to check out my Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Bread or Buffalo Chicken Pull-Apart Bread for more savory delights!
Tried this recipe? Leave a review and share your creations on Pinterest—I’d love to see your photos!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 980mg
Enjoy every cheesy, savory, and crispy bite of this incredible bread loaf!
