Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Looking for the perfect game day snack, weeknight dinner, or party appetizer? This Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli wraps all your comfort food dreams into a golden, cheesy, flavor-packed roll. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and melted mozzarella cheese inside a warm pizza dough, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
This irresistible dish is not just delicious—it’s also versatile, easy to prepare, and kid-friendly. Whether you’re cooking for your family or planning your next potluck, you’ll want this stromboli recipe on repeat.
Fun Fact: The iconic ranch dressing that ties this dish together was first developed by Steve Henson in the 1950s and later became a household staple thanks to Hidden Valley.
🧀 What Is a Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli?
A stromboli is an Italian-American invention that’s similar to a rolled-up pizza. Unlike calzones, strombolis are rolled and sliced like a log, making them perfect for sharing. The chicken bacon ranch variation puts an American twist on the traditional recipe, combining flavors that are beloved across the board.
To truly elevate this dish, use quality pizza dough. You can find excellent options at the store, or try making your own with this easy pizza dough recipe from King Arthur Baking.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need For Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
This recipe comes together with just a handful of simple, accessible ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 (13.8-ounce) can of refrigerated pizza dough
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- ½ cup chopped crispy bacon (about 12 slices)
- ½ cup ranch dressing (plus more for dipping)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp ranch seasoning
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
Optional Add-Ons:
- Cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Caramelized onions for sweetness
This Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli is loaded with melty cheese and savory pepperoni — the perfect crowd-pleasing snack or dinner.
🔪 How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the perfect stromboli roll every time.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out your pizza dough on parchment paper and place it on a baking sheet.
- Layer the cheese down the center of the dough, leaving room on all sides.
- Top with chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing.
- Fold and roll like a cinnamon roll. Seal edges tightly.
- Flip seam-side down, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with ranch seasoning and parsley.
- Cut small slits across the top for ventilation.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Pro Tip: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melt and flavor.
🥓 Tips & Variations
Keep your stromboli interesting and customize it based on your taste. Here are a few tips:
✔️ Best Practices
- Don’t overstuff: This causes tears in the dough.
- Pinch the seams well to keep the filling from leaking.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
🔄 Flavor Variations
One of the best things about Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is how easily you can customize it. Whether you’re catering to picky eaters, experimenting with bold new flavors, or just using up what’s in your fridge, this recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are some flavorful variations to keep your stromboli fresh and exciting every time you make it.
🔥 Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stromboli
Swap the ranch dressing for buffalo sauce and add a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles or pepper jack cheese. For extra heat, toss in some sliced jalapeños. This version brings the tang and spice of classic buffalo wings in stromboli form.
🧄 Alfredo Chicken & Spinach Stromboli
Replace ranch with creamy Alfredo sauce, and add a handful of sautéed spinach or chopped broccoli for a touch of greens. Use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for rich, cheesy flavor. It’s like a pasta dish, but handheld!
🥗 Caesar Chicken Stromboli
Inspired by the popular Costco chicken bake, this version uses Caesar dressing instead of ranch and adds Parmesan cheese along with the mozzarella. You can even sprinkle Italian seasoning on top before baking for extra flair.
🥓 BBQ Chicken Bacon Stromboli
Love barbecue? Use BBQ sauce in place of ranch and swap mozzarella with smoked gouda or sharp cheddar. The smoky sweetness of the sauce and bacon combo is a total winner.
🌱 Vegetarian Option
Skip the chicken and bacon, and fill your stromboli with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, and onions. Add your favorite creamy dressing (ranch or Caesar) and plenty of cheese for a meatless yet satisfying version.
With these simple twists, you can transform your base recipe into an entirely new dish—perfect for every palate or occasion!
🔢 Nutritional Breakdown
Understanding the nutrition behind your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli can help you make informed choices—whether you’re indulging or looking for ways to lighten it up. Below is a general breakdown for one serving (based on 6 servings total from a standard stromboli).
⚖️ Estimated Nutrition Per Serving:
- Calories: 435–450 kcal
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 33–35g
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60–70mg
- Sodium: 1050–1100mg
- Sugars: 4–6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 2mg
These values can vary based on the brands and types of ingredients used (such as store-bought vs. homemade dough, and full-fat vs. light ranch dressing).
🥦 Tips to Make It Lighter
If you’re watching your intake but still want to enjoy this delicious stromboli, here are some simple adjustments:
- Use light ranch dressing or make your own with Greek yogurt.
- Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian option.
- Reduce the cheese slightly or use a low-fat mozzarella blend.
- Opt for whole wheat pizza dough to increase fiber and nutrients.
🧠 Smart Indulgence
Even though this dish is indulgent, it’s also protein-rich and quite filling, making it a satisfying option in moderation. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced plate.
Remember, delicious doesn’t have to mean unhealthy—it’s all about balance and smart portioning!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides.
🍴 Try it with:
- Caesar salad or wedge salad
- Creamy Parmesan Brussels sprouts
- Garlic knots or roasted sweet potatoes
🍻 Great for:
- Game days
- Lunchboxes
- Casual dinners
- Appetizer trays
🧊 Storing & Reheating Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers from your Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli, they’re just as delicious the next day—if not more! Proper storage and reheating will help you keep that crispy crust and gooey filling intact.
🧊 How to Store
- Refrigerator: Once the stromboli has completely cooled, wrap the slices tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. You can also store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
- Freezer (Optional): Stromboli can be frozen, although the texture of the dough may soften. Wrap each piece individually in foil, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
🔥 How to Reheat
- Oven (Best Method): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stromboli slices on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Air Fryer: Reheat slices at 325°F for 5–6 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Microwave (Quickest): Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 30–60 seconds. Note: This may soften the crust.
🧠 Pro Tip:
Avoid microwaving too long, as it can make the crust soggy. For the best texture, stick with oven or air fryer methods when possible.
Leftover stromboli is great for lunchboxes or a quick snack—don’t let a single slice go to waste!
🧑🍳 Can You Make It Ahead?
Making stromboli in advance can be tricky because the pizza dough may overproof. However, you can:
- Parbake the dough lightly, store, then fill and finish baking later
- Pre-cook the filling and refrigerate separately until ready to roll
Avoid assembling too early unless baking immediately.
❓ FAQs: People Also Ask About Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli
Q1: Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes! Puff pastry gives it a flakier, more delicate crust, though it may cook faster, so reduce bake time slightly.
Q2: What’s the difference between stromboli and calzone?
Strombolis are rolled and sliced, while calzones are folded like a turnover. Calzones are typically smaller and sealed completely.
Q3: Can I use other cheeses like cheddar or provolone?
Absolutely. Cheddar adds sharpness, while provolone adds a slightly smoky depth.
Q4: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, especially with familiar flavors like ranch, chicken, and bacon. Try mini-strombolis for lunchboxes!
Q5: How do I make it spicy?
Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or swap the ranch for buffalo dressing.
🎉 Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli for Special Occasions
This stromboli shines during family game nights, holiday parties, and potlucks. Cut it into slices for easy serving or make mini strombolis using crescent dough for a bite-sized twist.
Hosting a party? Serve this alongside wings and sliders for a winning combo.
📝 Final Thoughts
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli is more than just a meal—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser packed with bold flavors and comfort in every bite. With its golden crust, melty cheese, savory chicken, and smoky bacon all brought together by creamy ranch dressing, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a fun twist on pizza night, this stromboli delivers every time.
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can mix up the fillings, change the sauce, or even use different dough options like crescent rolls or puff pastry. Want to spice it up? Add jalapeños or swap the ranch for buffalo sauce. Want it lighter? Go with turkey bacon and low-fat cheese. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes it such a versatile favorite.
Perfect for feeding a family, entertaining friends, or meal prepping lunch for the week, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it with a simple salad or your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a complete meal. If you love cheesy, crispy, savory comfort food, this recipe is a must-try!
