Buffalo Chicken Bread is the ultimate game day or party food, offering a spicy and cheesy twist on traditional pizza. The combination of tender chicken, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing creates a bold and zesty flavor, while the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses add a rich, creamy texture. Wrapped in golden-brown dough and baked to perfection, this bread is a fun and satisfying dish that's sure to be a hit with spice lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike. Whether you're serving it as a snack or a main course, Buffalo Chicken Bread is always a crowd-pleaser.
Buffalo Chicken Bread is a mouthwatering twist on classic pizza, featuring tender chicken coated in zesty buffalo and ranch sauces, rolled up with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, and baked to crispy perfection. This dish is perfect for game days, parties, or any time you want to serve something bold and satisfying. It’s a hit with spice lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike, making it an exciting addition to any meal or snack spread.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides a tender and savory base for the buffalo mixture.
- 1 tsp olive oil: Helps to coat the chicken and mix with the sauces.
- 1 pizza dough (homemade, defrosted in the refrigerator overnight): Acts as the crispy, golden-brown vessel that holds all the flavorful ingredients.
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a creamy and rich texture to the bread.
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, flavorful contrast to the mozzarella, enhancing the overall cheesiness of the dish.
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce, divided: Brings a bold, spicy flavor to the chicken and pairs perfectly with the cheese and ranch.
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing: Adds a cool, tangy balance to the heat of the buffalo sauce, creating a creamy, well-rounded flavor.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure the bread bakes evenly and achieves a golden-brown crust.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken with 1/4 cup of buffalo wing sauce. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more sauce to taste.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the ranch dressing and the remaining buffalo wing sauce, making sure the chicken is well-coated with the mixture. The combination of buffalo sauce and ranch creates a zesty, creamy base for the filling.
- Step 4:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle. Aim for a thickness that’s easy to roll, typically around 1/4 inch.
- Step 5:
- Evenly spread the buffalo ranch mixture across the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This will prevent the filling from spilling out as you roll the dough.
- Step 6:
- Layer the seasoned chicken evenly over the dough, followed by a generous sprinkling of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. The cheese will melt into the chicken, creating a gooey, delicious filling.
- Step 7:
- Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, similar to how you would roll cinnamon rolls. Be sure to tuck the ends of the dough under to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Step 8:
- Place the rolled dough, seam-side down, onto a prepared baking sheet. This helps the bread maintain its shape and ensures even cooking.
- Step 9:
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
- Step 10:
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Buffalo Chicken Bread is best served fresh from the oven, with a side of extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. This makes it even more flavorful and enjoyable, especially for spice lovers.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the bread crispy, or use a microwave for a quicker option (though the bread may soften).
- This dish also works well as a make-ahead option. Prepare the bread and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra touch of flavor, brush the top of the rolled dough with melted butter before baking. Sprinkle some garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or even grated Parmesan cheese on top for a boost of taste and texture.
- Feel free to customize the filling with other toppings such as diced onions, jalapeños, or even crumbled bacon. These additions can add a layer of complexity and extra flavor to the bread.
- If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or opt for a mild buffalo wing sauce instead. This makes the dish more suitable for those who prefer less heat.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay: “When working with dough, be patient. Letting it rise and rest properly will make it easier to handle and result in a better texture once baked.”
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis: “For perfect cheese pulls, use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar. The mozzarella melts smoothly, while the cheddar adds sharpness and color.”
- Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Always season your fillings well. Even when working with flavorful sauces like buffalo, a little extra salt and pepper can elevate the overall taste.”