When the craving for comfort food hits, there’s nothing quite like the irresistible allure of BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli. Picture this: warm, golden pizza dough enveloping tender rotisserie chicken, smothered in rich BBQ sauce, and gooey provolone cheese. The aroma wafting from the oven is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game nights or family gatherings.
What’s fantastic about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily switch up the chicken or cheese to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand. After a long day, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. This stromboli comes together quickly and effortlessly, ensuring a satisfying meal without the fuss. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll find it hard to believe such a delicious creation can be made in under 30 minutes! So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
Why is BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli a must-try?
Comforting and Delicious: The warm, gooey interior wrapped in crispy crust creates a perfect bite.
Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ideal solution for busy weeknights.
Endless Variations: Customize with your choice of chicken and cheese, ensuring everyone’s taste buds are satisfied.
Perfect for Sharing: This crowd-pleasing dish is great for gatherings, serving as a delightful appetizer or main course.
Aromatic Appeal: The irresistible scent of BBQ sauce and melty cheese will have your guests flocking to the kitchen!
Bring joy to your table with this delightful recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite! 💖
BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture
- Rotisserie Chicken – Offers savory flavor and makes meal prep a breeze.
- BBQ Sauce – Contributes sweetness and tang; choose your favorite brand or homemade version for the best results.
- Red Onion – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; yellow onion works as a great alternative if red isn’t on hand.
For the Dough
- Pizza Dough – Serves as the base; homemade dough enhances flavor, but store-bought can save time in a pinch.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and is perfect for sautéing the onions.
For the Cheese Filling
- Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully for a creamy texture; mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great substitutes.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, salty note to the crust; optional but highly recommended for extra flavor.
For the Topping
- Egg – Creates an egg wash, giving the stromboli a beautiful, golden exterior.
- Italian Seasoning – Enhances flavors throughout; dried oregano or basil are excellent alternatives if you’re out.
Each ingredient in this BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli plays a crucial role in creating a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Get ready to impress your family and friends!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the stromboli bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden brown crust.
- Sauté the onions: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the julienned red onion and sauté until soft and tender, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the pizza dough: Roll out your dough on parchment paper, stretching it into a rectangular shape. Layer provolone cheese slices along the center of the dough, covering about two-thirds of the surface.
- Mix the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, sautéed onions, and BBQ sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated, then pour the mixture over the provolone cheese slices.
- Roll the stromboli: Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough tightly into a jelly roll shape, using the parchment to assist. Tuck the ends under and ensure the seam is on the bottom.
- Brush the exterior: Use the egg to brush an egg wash all over the rolled stromboli, giving it a lovely shine. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese over the top for additional flavor.
- Bake the stromboli for 20-25 minutes until it’s golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, alongside extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the filling (chicken, onions, and BBQ sauce) up to 3 days in advance for quick assembly later. Simply refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can also roll the stromboli, brush it with egg wash, and keep it unbaked in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before popping it into the oven, ensuring that your stromboli bakes evenly and tastes just as delicious! When you’re ready to serve, bake until golden brown and bubbling—perfect for busy weeknights or surprise guests!
Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli
- Room Temperature: Allow the stromboli to cool completely before leaving it out for short periods, ideally no more than 2 hours.
- Fridge: Wrap cooled stromboli tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to retain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices by wrapping them well in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy your BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted.
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli
- Avoid Sogginess: Drain excess moisture from the chicken mixture; this prevents a soggy BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli that disappoints.
- Perfect Roll: Ensure to roll the dough tightly to seal in the filling; loose rolls can lead to leaks during baking.
- Steam Release: Don’t skip cutting slits in the top before baking; this allows steam to escape, preventing the stromboli from bursting.
- Refrigerate for Freshness: For optimal taste and texture, refrigerate unbaked stromboli and bake it fresh just before serving.
- Explore Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheese types; each variation brings a new twist to your BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli?
Create a delightful dining experience by complementing this heavenly stromboli with tasty sides and drinks.
- Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens with a zesty vinaigrette bring a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the stromboli.
- Coleslaw: Creamy slaw adds a crunchy texture and a tangy note, making each bite of the stromboli even more satisfying.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a warm and earthy contrast, perfect for rounding out your meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, naturally sweet fries pair wonderfully, offering a playful twist that kids and adults will love.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks make for a perfect finger food complement, perfect for dipping into extra BBQ sauce.
- Cheesy Queso Dip: A warm, gooey cheese dip can act as a fun sharing dish, adding a playful vibe to your gathering.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like iced tea or homemade lemonade harmonize with the BBQ flavors beautifully.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm cookies, embodying nostalgia and comfort for all ages.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of fruits adds a light, sweet touch, cleansing the palate after indulging in the stromboli.
- Sparkling Water: For a refreshing non-sweet option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon provides a bubbly, crisp balance.
BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli Variations
Feel free to tailor this recipe to your family’s tastes and preferences—each variation is as delightful as the original!
- Dairy-Free: Swap provolone for almond or cashew cheese to create a creamy, dairy-free delight.
Experiment with different dairy-free options to find your favorite! The result can still be rich and satisfying while accommodating dietary needs. - Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the chicken mixture for a flavorful kick.
The added heat will create a mouth-watering contrast to the tangy BBQ sauce, turning up the flavor! - Veggie-Packed: Mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a nutritious boost.
Adding veggies not only enhances flavor but also packs in nutrients, making it a wholesome meal. - Herbed Version: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic upgrade.
Herbs bring a bright freshness that complements the richness of the cheese and chicken beautifully. - Smoky Flavor: Use smoked BBQ sauce or replace provolone with smoked gouda to deepen the flavor profile.
This smoky variation gives the dish a unique twist, perfect for BBQ lovers! - Meat Lovers: Blend shredded rotisserie chicken with crumbled bacon for a hearty, indulgent treat.
Imagine the crunch of bacon mingling with the cheesy goodness—a true comfort food experience! - Lazy Night: Use frozen pizza dough for convenience; no need for homemade dough when time is short.
You can still achieve that homemade taste with less prep time than usual, ensuring dinner is hassle-free. - Zesty BBQ: Try a citrus-infused BBQ sauce or mix in a hint of lime for a refreshing zing.
This twist adds a layer of brightness to the BBQ flavor, making it stand out at any gathering.
BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic choice since it’s already cooked and offers great flavor. However, you can also use shredded cooked chicken breasts or thighs, or even pulled pork for a different twist. Just ensure the meat is savory and well-seasoned for the best results.
How do I store leftover BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli?
To keep your stromboli fresh, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli?
Yes, indeed! Freezing is a great way to preserve your stromboli. After it has cooled, slice it, then wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container, and they will last up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my stromboli turns out soggy?
Very! If you find your stromboli is soggy, it’s likely due to excess moisture in the filling. To avoid this, drain any liquid from the chicken before mixing it with other ingredients. Additionally, don’t overfill it; less is more when it comes to the filling, allowing steam to escape and the crust to crisp up nicely.
Can I customize the cheese used in BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli?
Of course! The great thing about this recipe is its flexibility. While provolone cheese is ideal for its meltability, you can absolutely use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even smoked gouda for a unique flavor profile. Feel free to experiment and find the combination that your family loves best!
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
It’s always essential to check for allergies! This BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli contains gluten (from the pizza dough) and dairy (from the cheeses). If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free dough and dairy alternatives to modify the recipe without sacrificing flavor. Always read ingredient labels carefully!
Irresistibly Gooey BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the julienned red onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Roll out your dough on parchment paper into a rectangle. Layer provolone cheese slices along the center.
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onions, and BBQ sauce. Stir until well-coated and pour over the cheese.
- Starting from one end, roll the dough tightly into a jelly roll shape and tuck the ends under.
- Brush the exterior with the egg wash. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cheese is bubbling. Cool slightly before slicing and serve with extra BBQ sauce.
