Chicken Beef Ranch Stuffed Bread

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Introduction

If you’re a fan of savory, hearty meals that combine tender meat, creamy ranch dressing, and delicious bread, then Chicken Beef Ranch Stuffed Bread is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together ground chicken, ground beef, and a zesty ranch filling all wrapped in a soft, golden crust, making it the perfect dish for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or as a quick weeknight meal. It’s a comforting fusion of flavors and textures that promises to satisfy both your hunger and your taste buds.

In this article, we’ll explore why Chicken Beef Ranch Stuffed Bread is a must-try meal, share step-by-step instructions on how to make it, and provide helpful tips and variations to make this dish even more delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a cozy meal at home, this recipe will surely be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Savory and Flavorful: The combination of ground chicken, beef, ranch dressing, and spices creates a savory and delicious filling that is rich in flavor.
  • Easy to Make: While it may look impressive, the recipe is quite simple to prepare and involves minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This stuffed bread can be made ahead of time and even frozen, making it a great option for meal prepping.
  • Great for Sharing: Whether you’re serving a crowd or just a few, this recipe is easily scalable and ideal for sharing.
  • Halal-Friendly: This recipe is completely halal, with no pork, bacon, or wine, ensuring that it can be enjoyed by all.

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (20 minutes for prep, 1 hour for baking)
  • Servings: This recipe makes about 8 servings, depending on the size of the slices.
  • Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 450, Protein: 30g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

For the Bread:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your bread dough.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: To season the dough and enhance flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar: A small amount of sugar helps activate the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons dry yeast: This is essential to help the dough rise and achieve that perfect soft texture.
  • ¾ cup warm water: To activate the yeast and make the dough come together.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For richness and to help the dough stay soft and pliable.
  • 1 egg (for egg wash): To brush the top of the bread before baking for a golden, glossy finish.

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb ground chicken: A lean meat that adds tenderness to the filling.
  • 1 lb ground beef: Adds a rich flavor and makes the filling hearty and satisfying.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the meat.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped: For flavor and a bit of sweetness in the filling.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: For extra flavor and depth.
  • 1 cup ranch dressing (make sure it’s halal): The creamy ranch dressing adds moisture and a tangy flavor to the meat mixture.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: For an herbaceous flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the filling.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For added creaminess and richness in the filling.

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, vibrant touch.
  • Extra ranch dressing: For drizzling over the top before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation

FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE BREAD DOUGH

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir everything together until it begins to form a dough.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
  4. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

SECOND STEP: PREPARE THE FILLING

  1. Cook the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.
  3. Season the Filling: Stir in the dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the ranch dressing and mix well to ensure the filling is creamy and well-coated. Remove from heat and set aside to cool for a few minutes.
  4. Add the Cheese: Once the filling has cooled slightly, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt into the mixture and add creaminess.

THIRD STEP: ASSEMBLE THE STUFFED BREAD

  1. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle shape, about 12×8 inches, making sure the dough is evenly spread.
  2. Fill the Dough: Spread the prepared filling evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges.
  3. Roll and Seal: Carefully roll the dough from one edge to the other, like a jelly roll or cinnamon roll. Pinch the seams to seal the bread.
  4. Place in Baking Dish: Place the rolled bread seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. If you prefer, you can use parchment paper for easier cleanup.
  5. Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the top of the bread. This will give the bread a golden, glossy finish when baked.

FOURTH STEP: BAKE THE BREAD

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake the Bread: Bake the stuffed bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If you notice the top of the bread browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.
  3. Cool Slightly: Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve.

FINAL STEP: GARNISH AND SERVE

  1. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle the top of the stuffed bread with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
  2. Serve with Ranch: Drizzle extra ranch dressing over the top of the bread for an extra creamy touch. Serve warm, and enjoy the satisfying combination of flavors.

How to Serve Chicken Beef Ranch Stuffed Bread

Chicken Beef Ranch Stuffed Bread is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are some great serving ideas:

1. As a Main Course

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone as a main course. Pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the bread and filling.

2. Serve with Dipping Sauces

Serve the stuffed bread with extra ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for dipping. These sauces complement the flavors of the bread and enhance the overall meal.

3. Great for Parties

Chicken Beef Ranch Stuffed Bread is perfect for parties or gatherings. You can slice it into smaller portions for easy sharing, and the savory filling is sure to please a crowd.

4. Pair with Fresh Vegetables

Serve the bread alongside fresh, crunchy vegetables such as carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips. The freshness of the veggies contrasts nicely with the rich filling of the bread.

Additional Tips

  1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed bread in advance by assembling it, covering it tightly, and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours. Bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.
  2. Freezing: After baking, let the bread cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
  3. Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling.
  4. Vegetarian Version: For a meatless version, substitute the ground chicken and beef with a combination of beans, lentils, or vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers. You can still use the ranch dressing for flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Add Bacon

If you’re not concerned about keeping the recipe halal, you can add some cooked bacon pieces to the filling for an extra smoky flavor.

2. Make it Gluten-Free

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to also use gluten-free ranch dressing.

3. Experiment with Different Cheeses

Swap out the mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of your favorites for a different flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Chicken Beef Ranch Stuffed Bread can be made ahead and frozen for later use. To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

To freeze, allow the bread to cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

Special Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl: For preparing the dough and filling.
  • Rolling Pin: To roll out the bread dough.
  • Baking Sheet: For baking the stuffed bread.
  • Pastry Brush: To apply the egg wash.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing the bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken? Yes, you can cook and shred chicken breast as an alternative to ground chicken. Just make sure to season it well.
  2. Can I make this without ranch dressing? If you prefer, you can substitute the ranch dressing with sour cream or a creamy garlic sauce for a different flavor profile.
  3. Can I use store-bought dough? Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough or puff pastry as a shortcut.
  4. How do I make the bread crust extra crispy? For a crispy crust, brush the dough with olive oil before baking, and consider baking it on a pizza stone if you have one.
  5. Can I freeze the bread before baking? Yes, you can assemble the bread and freeze it before baking. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

Conclusion

Chicken Beef Ranch Stuffed Bread is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together savory meat, creamy ranch, and soft, golden bread. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prepping, this recipe offers plenty of versatility and flavor. Whether you enjoy it with a side of veggies or dip it in your favorite sauce, this stuffed bread will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy every bite!

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