Introduction to BBQ Chicken Stromboli
Ah, the joy of cooking! There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into an unforgettable dish. If you’re anything like me—juggling work, family, and a million responsibilities—you’ll appreciate my BBQ Chicken Stromboli. This delightful recipe is a quick meal that requires minimal effort yet promises to impress your loved ones. With gooey provolone cheese, tender rotisserie chicken, and zesty BBQ sauce, this easy dish captures the comforting warmth of home. Whether it’s a hectic weeknight or a fun weekend gathering, this BBQ Chicken Stromboli is bound to make everyone smile.
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Stromboli
This BBQ Chicken Stromboli is a lifesaver for busy cooks who crave deliciousness without the fuss. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those whirlwind weeknights. The savory combination of BBQ chicken and melted provolone encased in golden dough is a flavor explosion. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it to suit everyone’s tastes, ensuring nobody leaves the table disappointed. Comfort food is truly a blessing!
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Stromboli
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward amazing BBQ Chicken Stromboli! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: A tablespoon of this golden goodness will help sauté the red onions to sweet perfection.
- Red onion: One small, julienned red onion adds a fantastic flavor. If red isn’t your style, yellow onions work well too!
- Pizza dough: This is the star that wraps everything together. You can buy pre-made dough or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Gluten-free options are available in most grocery stores!
- Provolone cheese: Six slices of this semi-soft cheese promise to melt beautifully. Mozzarella or even cheddar can be tasty substitutes!
- Rotisserie chicken: Two cups of shredded rotisserie chicken provide convenient flavor. It’s a time-saver and a delicious alternative to homemade chicken.
- BBQ sauce: Half a cup of your favorite BBQ sauce infuses the filling with smoky goodness. Feel free to experiment with different brands to find your favorite.
- Egg: A beaten egg adds a lovely golden gloss to the outside of your stromboli. If you’re vegan, a splash of non-dairy milk can also work.
- Italian seasoning: Just a teaspoon gives a delightful herby flavor. This is the touch of Italy that ties the dish together!
- Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top enhances the crust with a cheesy finish.
You can find precise measurements for each of these ingredients at the end of the article, available for easy printing!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Stromboli
Let’s dive into the delicious process of making BBQ Chicken Stromboli. This step-by-step guide will help you create a delightful dish that everyone will love. From preheating the oven to the final golden bake, I promise it’ll be a fun and satisfying journey!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first: preheat your oven to 375°F. This temperature is key for getting that golden, crispy crust. Trust me, a properly preheated oven makes all the difference in achieving a perfect BBQ Chicken Stromboli!
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Next, let’s add some sweetness to our dish by sautéing the onions. In a small skillet over medium-high heat, melt a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once melted, add your julienned red onion. Sauté these little beauties until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Caramelizing the onions really amplifies their flavor, making your stromboli irresistible!
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Now it’s time to work with the star of our show – the pizza dough! Roll it out on a piece of parchment paper, stretching it to a rectangle shape. Make sure it’s even. If you can’t find pizza dough, there are easy alternatives. You can use store-bought flatbreads or even crescent roll dough for a fun twist!
Step 4: Assemble the Filling
Let’s bring together that heavenly filling! In a bowl, mix your shredded rotisserie chicken with half a cup of BBQ sauce and those sautéed onions. This combo bursts with flavor! Lay six slices of provolone cheese down the center of the dough to create a cheesy base, then spoon your chicken mixture right on top. The tangy BBQ and creamy cheese will make your taste buds dance!
Step 5: Roll the Stromboli
It’s rolling time! Starting at one end, carefully roll the dough up like a jelly roll, using the parchment paper to assist you. This technique prevents the filling from spilling out. Tuck the ends of the stromboli underneath as you go. This simply guarantees that all that deliciousness stays locked in!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Finally, it’s time to bake our masterpiece! Place the rolled stromboli on a baking sheet. Brush the outside with your beaten egg for that lovely golden shine. Don’t forget to make a few diagonal slits on top for ventilation. This way, your stromboli won’t explode in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Your kitchen is about to smell incredible!
Tips for Success
- Use a rolling pin to stretch the dough evenly; this ensures even baking.
- Experiment with different BBQ sauces to discover your favorite flavor combo.
- Allow the stromboli to cool for a few minutes before slicing; this keeps the filling intact.
- Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for added texture and taste.
- Double the recipe and freeze one for a future quick meal!
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A sturdy option for holding your stromboli; an oven-safe dish works, too.
- Skillet: Essential for sautéing those sweet onions; a non-stick pan makes cleanup easier.
- Parchment paper: Helps with rolling and prevents sticking; aluminum foil can also do the trick.
- Rolling pin: Perfect for flattening the dough; a wine bottle works in a pinch.
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for your filling; any large bowl will suffice!
Variations
- For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers.
- Make it spicy by adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
- Switch up the cheese by using mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pizza dough or even cauliflower crust as a gluten-free option.
- Add a layer of fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, before rolling for an aromatic lift.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your BBQ Chicken Stromboli with a refreshing garden salad for a light, balanced meal.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping—it’s a crowd favorite!
- An ice-cold lemonade or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.
- For presentation, slice the stromboli into generous pieces and arrange on a platter.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor!
FAQs about BBQ Chicken Stromboli
Let’s tackle some common questions you might have about making this tasty BBQ Chicken Stromboli. I know how important it is to get a few clarifications before stepping into the kitchen!
Can I use homemade pizza dough for this BBQ Chicken Stromboli?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your taste. Just ensure it’s rolled out thin enough for good baking results.
What other fillings can I use in my stromboli?
Feel free to get creative! You can swap in different proteins like shredded beef or roasted vegetables. The key is to keep the moisture balance right to avoid soggy dough.
How do I store leftover BBQ Chicken Stromboli?
To keep it fresh, wrap leftovers in aluminum foil or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay good for about 3 days.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Stromboli?
Yes! I often make an extra one to freeze. Just wrap it tightly before baking, then pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge and bake as directed.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This BBQ Chicken Stromboli is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble multiple ones and store them in the fridge or freezer for busy days!
Final Thoughts
Making BBQ Chicken Stromboli not only feeds the family but also brings a delightful sense of accomplishment. The blend of flavors, the gooey cheese, and that crispy crust is comfort food at its finest. I love how versatile this dish is, allowing for personal twists based on your family’s preferences. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, dive into the kitchen, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a little slice of happiness with this BBQ Chicken Stromboli!
Print
BBQ Chicken Stromboli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious BBQ Chicken Stromboli filled with shredded rotisserie chicken, provolone cheese, and zesty BBQ sauce, all wrapped in golden pizza dough.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small red onion, julienned
- 1 pizza dough
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a small skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and sauté until tender. Set aside.
- Roll out the pizza dough and stretch it out on a piece of parchment paper. Place the provolone cheese slices in a row down the center of the dough.
- In a small bowl, toss the shredded chicken, sautéed onions, and barbecue sauce until well combined. Place the chicken mixture over the provolone cheese slices.
- Starting on one side, carefully roll the dough up like a jelly roll, using the parchment paper to help roll it over. Slide the stromboli to the middle of the parchment so that the seam is on the bottom.
- Stretch and tuck the ends under the stromboli. Apply an egg wash to the outside of the dough and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese. Cut several diagonal slits into the top of the dough.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Serve with barbecue sauce on the side.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add additional spices to the chicken mixture.
- Make sure to let the stromboli cool slightly before slicing to keep the filling from spilling out.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
