Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe
If you’re anything like me and love a good spicy, cheesy snack that feels like a warm hug, then this Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. I absolutely love how the creamy buffalo chicken filling wraps up in that golden, crispy pizza crust-it’s a total crowd-pleaser every time I make it. Whether you’re prepping for game day, a casual dinner, or just craving something comforting with a little kick, this stromboli will not disappoint.
When I first tried this Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe, I was amazed at how quick and straightforward it was to toss together-perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. You ll find that the balance between spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch seasoning makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate leftover chicken into something special and shareable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Prep: The Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe comes together quickly using simple ingredients, perfect for busy nights.
- Flavor-Packed: Each bite combines tangy buffalo heat with gooey cheese and creamy ranch for addictive flavor.
- Versatile Serving: Great as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack-it always gets gobbled up fast.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time and bake just before serving without losing any deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe come together harmoniously to give you that signature spicy, cheesy, and creamy balance. I always recommend using a good-quality refrigerated pizza crust; it makes the rolling and baking process much easier.
- Cooked, Shredded Chicken: I usually use rotisserie chicken-it s tender, flavorful, and saves time.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure it s softened for easy mixing-this adds the creamy texture that tames the buffalo heat.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a tangy, herby punch that pairs perfectly with buffalo sauce.
- Buffalo Sauce: Choose your preferred brand or homemade buffalo sauce-adjust the heat level to your taste.
- Shredded Cheese: I recommend a mix of sharp cheddar and pepper jack for both melty texture and a little spicy kick.
- Refrigerated Pizza Crust: This acts as a perfect vessel for the filling-easy to roll and yields a flaky crust.
- Dried Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a little fresh touch on top.
- Ranch and/or Bleu Cheese Dressing: Essential for dipping-helps balance out the spice and adds extra creaminess.
Variations
One of the best parts of this Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your liking-you can make it milder, cheesier, or even vegetarian if you get creative. Don t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients to make it your own.
- Spicy Level: I sometimes add extra hot sauce or diced jalapeños inside if I m craving more heat.
- Cheese Varieties: Subbing in mozzarella or gouda can give a different flavor and meltiness.
- Vegetarian Option: Try swapping chicken for roasted cauliflower or mushrooms for a meat-free twist.
- Herbs and Spices: Adding fresh cilantro or a dash of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Buffalo Chicken Filling
Start by combining your shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, buffalo sauce, and two cups of shredded cheese. I like to use my hands or a sturdy spoon to really blend everything until it s creamy and well mixed. This filling is where the magic happens-you want that buffalo flavor to be evenly distributed. Set it aside while you prepare the crust.
Step 2: Prepare and Roll the Pizza Crust
Unroll your refrigerated pizza crust onto a sheet of parchment paper. I always do this on the parchment because it makes rolling and transferring the stromboli to the baking sheet so much easier. Spread that buffalo chicken mixture evenly across the crust, making sure to leave about a one-inch border around the edges. This helps keep the filling safe when rolling.
Step 3: Roll and Seal Your Stromboli
Using the parchment paper to help guide you, carefully roll the crust from one side to the other. Once you ve rolled it up, pinch the edges and ends tightly to seal in the filling. Trust me, this step is key for preventing leaks during baking. With the stromboli still on the parchment, transfer it to your baking sheet.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese all over the top of the stromboli, then add a sprinkle of dried parsley for a dash of color. Pop it into a 400°F (204°C) oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and crispy. I keep an eye on mine towards the end so it doesn t over-bake.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Let the stromboli cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing-this helps the filling set so you get nice, clean slices that hold together. Then, serve with your favorite ranch or bleu cheese dressing for dipping. You re in for a seriously satisfying meal or snack!
Pro Tips for Making Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe
- Use Parchment Paper: It s a lifesaver for rolling the stromboli and transferring it without a mess.
- Don t Overstuff: Leaving a small border around the crust helps prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
- Let It Rest: Waiting to slice allows the filling to firm up, making for cleaner, prettier slices.
- Check Cheese Brownness: If your cheese starts browning too quickly, tent the stromboli loosely with foil to avoid burning.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe
Garnishes
When I serve this stromboli, I love to sprinkle a bit of fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top for a bright, fresh contrast. A drizzle of extra buffalo sauce on the side also adds a spicy kick for those who want more heat. Don t forget the ranch or bleu cheese dressing-it s the perfect creamy dip that takes every bite to the next level.
Side Dishes
For sides, I like to keep things simple and fresh to balance the richness of the stromboli. A crisp garden salad or crunchy celery sticks are my go-tos. Sometimes I add some roasted sweet potato fries or a light coleslaw for a bit of crunch and color on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, I slice the Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe into bite-sized pinwheels and arrange them on a platter with little bowls of dipping sauces. It s such a fun, shareable way to enjoy it! I ve also wrapped it up for picnics or packed slices for lunchboxes-it travels beautifully and tastes just as great the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil or airtight containers in the fridge, and they keep well for up to 3 days. When I dig back in, the flavors have had time to meld even more, making for an even tastier snack or second meal.
Freezing
This Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe freezes really well-just wrap the unbaked stromboli tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When I m ready to bake it, I let it thaw overnight in the fridge before popping it in the oven as usual. It s a great option for prepping meals ahead or saving for a busy day.
Reheating
When reheating leftovers, I prefer to warm slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven to keep that crust nice and crispy. Microwaving can make the crust a bit soggy, so I usually avoid it if I can. About 10 minutes at 350°F usually does the trick!
FAQs
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Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of refrigerated pizza crust for this Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works beautifully and adds extra flavor, just make sure it s rolled out thinly and evenly so it s easy to roll with the filling. Keep in mind that homemade dough might require a slightly longer baking time.
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How spicy is this Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe?
The spice level depends mostly on the buffalo sauce you choose, but the cream cheese and ranch seasoning help balance the heat. If you prefer milder flavors, use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the quantity slightly. You can always serve extra hot sauce on the side!
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Can I prepare the Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the stromboli up to a day ahead, keep it wrapped in the fridge, and bake it fresh when you re ready. For longer storage, freeze it unbaked as described above.
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What dips go best with this Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe?
Ranch and bleu cheese dressings are classic pairings that I highly recommend. Their cool creaminess perfectly complements the spicy filling and crispy crust.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe has become one of my favorite go-to comfort foods because it s delicious, simple, and always rings in those cozy, crowd-pleasing vibes. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do-it’s a recipe that s sure to warm your heart (and taste buds!) during any occasion. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this spicy, cheesy delight-I promise it ll be love at first bite!
PrintBuffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Stromboli is a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer that combines tender shredded chicken with creamy buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, and melted cheeses all wrapped in a crispy pizza crust. Perfect for parties or a comforting meal, it’s baked until golden and served with ranch or bleu cheese dressing for dipping.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- 1 oz packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheese (mix of sharp cheddar and pepper jack)
Stromboli and Topping
- 1 (13 oz) refrigerated pizza crust
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mix of sharp cheddar and pepper jack), for topping
- Dried parsley, for garnish
- Ranch and/or bleu cheese dressing, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the stromboli evenly and achieving a crispy crust.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, buffalo sauce, and 2 cups of shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a creamy, spicy filling.
- Roll Out Dough: Lay out the refrigerated pizza crust onto a sheet of parchment paper. Rolling it on parchment makes it easier to roll up and transfer the stromboli later.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the prepared buffalo chicken mixture over the pizza crust, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Roll Stromboli: Using the parchment paper as a guide, carefully roll the crust up over the filling from one side to the other. Pinch the seams and the ends tightly to seal the filling inside.
- Transfer and Top: Transfer the stromboli on the parchment paper to a baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top and garnish with dried parsley for color and added flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes. This rest time helps the filling set for easier slicing. Serve warm with ranch and/or bleu cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on your spice preference.
- The parchment paper makes rolling and transferring the stromboli much easier.
- Letting the stromboli cool slightly before slicing prevents the filling from spilling out.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces to complement the spicy buffalo flavor.