We’ve always been fans of the fiery kick in Buffalo chicken, and what better way to amp up the fun than with our Buffalo Chicken Stromboli Recipe? This bold twist on a classic Italian-inspired dish combines spicy shredded chicken, melted cheese, and a crispy dough for a handheld delight that’s perfect for game days or casual meals.
It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that brings big flavors to your table without much fuss. We’ll guide you through creating this savory favorite that promises to spice up your recipe rotation and leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
To prepare our flavorful Buffalo Chicken Stromboli, we recommend gathering these key ingredients in the order they are typically used during assembly and preparation. This ensures a smooth cooking process and highlights the spicy, cheesy goodness that makes this dish a game-day favorite.
Dough and Base
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, thawed if frozen, as it’s the foundation we roll out first)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the dough to prevent sticking and add a golden crisp)
Chicken and Sauce Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or baked, seasoned to enhance the Buffalo flavor we mix in next)
- 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce (your favorite brand or homemade, tossed with the chicken for that signature spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional, for mixing in to balance the heat)
Cheese and Vegetables
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (melted for gooey texture, layered over the chicken mixture)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (added for extra sharpness that complements the Buffalo elements)
- 1/2 cup diced celery (finely chopped for crunch, incorporated into the filling for freshness)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion (sliced thin for a mild bite, mixed in to boost flavor without overwhelming)
Toppings and Finishing Touches
- 1 egg (beaten, for an egg wash that gives the Stromboli a shiny, baked finish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (sprinkled on top for an aromatic enhancement before baking)
- Sesame seeds or additional cheese (optional, for sprinkling to add texture and visual appeal)
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into assembling our Buffalo Chicken Stromboli, let’s ensure we have the right tools on hand. This will make the preparation process smooth and efficient, allowing us to focus on creating that perfect blend of spicy, cheesy goodness wrapped in crispy dough.
We recommend the following essential equipment, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Baking Sheet or Tray: A sturdy 13×18 inch rimmed baking sheet is ideal for placing the assembled Stromboli and ensuring even baking. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and achieve a golden crust.
- Rolling Pin: Use a standard wooden or silicone rolling pin to roll out the pizza dough evenly into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches, for the perfect base.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two medium-sized bowls—one for mixing the shredded chicken with Buffalo sauce and another for combining cheeses and vegetables—to keep our ingredients organized and mess-free.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife and a stable cutting board for dicing celery and red onion precisely, adding that fresh crunch to our filling.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate 1-cup and 1-tablespoon measures to portion out ingredients like cheese and sauce, ensuring consistent flavor every time.
- Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying the egg wash evenly over the dough, which helps create a glossy, golden finish on our Stromboli.
- Oven: Preheat to 425°F for baking; we rely on a standard oven with good temperature control to achieve that crispy exterior while melting the cheeses inside.
With these tools ready, we’re set to transition seamlessly from preparing ingredients to building and baking our flavorful Buffalo Chicken Stromboli.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools prepared, let’s walk through the steps to craft our irresistible Buffalo Chicken Stromboli. We’ll ensure each phase delivers bold flavors and a perfect texture for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Prep the Ingredients
First, we gather and prepare our components for easy assembly. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken with 1/2 cup of Buffalo sauce until the chicken is evenly coated in that spicy, tangy glaze we crave. If desired, stir in 1/4 cup of ranch or blue cheese dressing for a creamy contrast that balances the heat.
Next, we handle the vegetables and cheese. Dice 1/2 cup of celery and 1/4 cup of red onion into small, uniform pieces to add a crisp, fresh crunch that complements the molten cheese. Shred 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of cheddar if they aren’t already, ensuring they melt smoothly into the filling. Finally, beat one egg in a small bowl and mix in a dash of garlic powder to create our egg wash, which will give the Stromboli its golden, aromatic sheen.
Assemble the Stromboli
With ingredients prepped, we move to building the Stromboli for that satisfying, layered bite. On a floured surface, roll out 1 pound of pizza dough into a rectangle about 12×16 inches, aiming for an even thickness that ensures a crispy yet tender crust.
Layer the fillings strategically down the center: spread the Buffalo chicken mixture over the dough, then sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella and cheddar for a gooey, melty core, followed by the diced celery and red onion for bursts of fresh, pungent flavor. Fold the dough over the filling like a blanket, sealing the edges firmly to trap in the spicy aromas and prevent leaks during baking.
Brush the top with our egg wash using a pastry brush, and if we want extra texture, sprinkle on sesame seeds or more cheese. This step creates a shiny, golden exterior that contrasts beautifully with the warm, spicy interior we love in our Buffalo Chicken Stromboli.
Bake the Stromboli
Preheat our oven to 425°F as outlined earlier, ensuring it’s fully heated for optimal rising and browning. Place the assembled Stromboli on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake it in the center rack for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust turns a deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe, juicy chicken.
Halfway through baking, we rotate the sheet for even cooking, allowing the spicy scents to fill our kitchen and the cheese to bubble enticingly. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set, making it easier to slice into warm, flavorful pieces ready for serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Buffalo Chicken Stromboli recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We can prepare components or the entire dish in advance to save time while keeping flavors fresh and vibrant. This ensures that spicy shredded chicken, melted cheeses, and crispy dough come together effortlessly when you’re ready to bake and enjoy.
Preparing the Filling Ahead
To get a head start, we begin by mixing the shredded chicken with Buffalo sauce and optional ranch or blue cheese dressing. Prepare this filling up to 2 days in advance for the best results, as it allows the spicy and tangy flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. Here’s how:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken with 1/2 cup of Buffalo sauce. If desired, stir in 1/4 cup of ranch or blue cheese dressing for added creaminess.
- Dice 1/2 cup of celery and 1/4 cup of red onion, then fold them into the mixture for a crisp, refreshing contrast.
- Transfer the filling to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. This step not only simplifies assembly but also enhances the dish’s bold, fiery taste.
Assembling the Stromboli in Advance
We can fully assemble the Stromboli up to 24 hours before baking, making it ideal for game days or meal prep. Roll out the dough, add the fillings, and seal it as described in our preparation instructions, then store it unbaked.
Follow these steps for seamless make-ahead assembly:
- Roll out 1 pound of pizza dough into a rectangle on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Layer the prepped filling—1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar, and the chicken mixture—along the center, leaving edges clear for sealing.
- Fold and seal the dough, brush with the beaten egg wash mixed with a dash of garlic powder, and cover loosely with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the assembled Stromboli on the baking sheet to maintain its shape and prevent sogginess.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage is key to preserving the Stromboli’s texture and flavor. We recommend the following timelines and methods, summarized in the table below for quick reference:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken filling | Up to 2 days | Airtight container in fridge | Stir before using to refresh flavors and ensure even distribution. |
| Assembled Stromboli | Up to 24 hours | Covered on baking sheet in fridge | Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking to avoid uneven cooking. |
| Baked Stromboli (leftovers) | Up to 3 days | Wrapped in foil in fridge or freezer | Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore that golden, crispy crust. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure our Buffalo Chicken Stromboli remains a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to handle, even on the busiest days. Always check for food safety by verifying that refrigerated items are used within the recommended times.
Conclusion
We’ve loved crafting this Buffalo Chicken Stromboli recipe with you and hope it’s become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s a simple way to spice up any gathering while delivering bold flavors that keep everyone coming back.
Remember it’s versatile so feel free to tweak it with your favorite twists. Let’s make every meal memorable with dishes like this one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Buffalo Chicken Stromboli?
Buffalo Chicken Stromboli is a delicious, spicy twist on a classic Italian dish, featuring shredded chicken tossed in Buffalo sauce, melted cheeses, and crunchy veggies, all wrapped in crispy pizza dough. It’s a fun, easy recipe perfect for game days or casual gatherings, combining bold flavors into a handheld meal that serves as a crowd-pleasing alternative to pizza or sandwiches.
What ingredients are needed for Buffalo Chicken Stromboli?
You’ll need 1 pound of pizza dough, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken mixed with 1/2 cup of Buffalo sauce (plus optional ranch or blue cheese dressing), 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar, 1/2 cup of diced celery, 1/4 cup of diced red onion, a beaten egg for wash, and garlic powder for seasoning. These create a flavorful, spicy filling.
How do I prepare Buffalo Chicken Stromboli?
Start by mixing shredded chicken with Buffalo sauce and optional dressing. Roll out pizza dough, layer with chicken mixture, cheeses, celery, and onion. Seal the edges, brush with egg wash, and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until golden. Let it rest before slicing. This simple process takes about 30-40 minutes total, making it ideal for beginners.
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Stromboli ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance to let flavors meld, or assemble the entire Stromboli up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready. For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You’ll need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, a rolling pin to flatten the dough, mixing bowls for ingredients, a knife and cutting board for dicing, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a pastry brush for the egg wash, and an oven preheated to 425°F. These basics ensure smooth preparation without special tools.
How should I store and reheat leftover Buffalo Chicken Stromboli?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess, and let it cool slightly before serving to retain the best texture and flavor.