Description
This Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Bread is a comforting and indulgent recipe that combines a crusty loaf of French or Italian bread filled with a creamy chicken Alfredo mixture. Topped with melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley, then baked to bubbly perfection, this dish makes a perfect appetizer or main course for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Stuffed Bread
- 1 giant loaf French or Italian bread
- 2 cups hot cooked chicken, shredded or sliced
- 1/2 cup cheese sauce (homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Bread: Carefully split the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. Scoop out some of the soft interior bread to create a cavity for the filling, ensuring the sides remain thick enough to hold the stuffing securely. Save the removed bread for making breadcrumbs or croutons later.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Alfredo cheese sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are blended into a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Fill the Bread: Evenly spoon the chicken Alfredo mixture into the hollowed-out bread halves, loosely piling the filling to fill the cavity completely.
- Add the Topping: Mix the garlic powder into the melted butter. Brush this garlic butter all over the outside sides and top of the stuffed bread. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a fresh, colorful finish.
- Bake: Place the stuffed bread on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. For a more browned and crispy top, broil the bread for the last 1-2 minutes while closely monitoring to prevent burning.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the stuffed bread from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use either homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce depending on your preference and time availability.
- Use fresh cooked chicken for the best texture and flavor; leftover roasted or grilled chicken works great.
- The scooped bread inside can be saved to make crunchy croutons or breadcrumbs to use in other dishes.
- If desired, add red pepper flakes to the filling for a subtle spicy kick.
- To make the dish vegetarian, omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
