Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread is an irresistibly delicious dish that combines the bold and spicy flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting, warm goodness of a cheesy stuffed bread. It’s the ultimate fusion of two fan-favorite foods: the classic buffalo chicken wings and a fresh, homemade bread loaf. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, preparing a family meal, or looking for a fun, new twist on dinner, this stuffed bread is sure to please everyone at the table.

This recipe involves making a homemade dough, filling it with a spicy buffalo chicken mixture, and baking it until golden brown and bubbly. The combination of tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese wrapped in a soft bread crust is undeniably delicious. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a weeknight dinner, this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with the sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Allow the yeast to sit for about 5-10 minutes. The mixture should begin to bubble or foam, indicating that the yeast is activated and ready to use.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using). Mix them together until well combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir until the dough begins to form. You may need to add a little more flour if the dough feels too sticky or a little water if it’s too dry.
4. Knead the Dough:
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a bit of water.
5. Let the Dough Rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size. While waiting for the dough to rise, prepare the buffalo chicken filling.

Step 2: Preparing the Buffalo Chicken Filling

1. Shred the Chicken:
   If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, you can quickly boil or bake boneless, skinless chicken breasts, then shred the chicken using two forks or by chopping it into small pieces.
2. Combine the Buffalo Sauce and Dressing:
   In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce mixture.
3. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
   Stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste, making sure the filling is well-seasoned.
4. Optional Garnish:
   If you like a bit of green onion flavor, add the chopped green onions into the mixture, or save them for garnish after baking.

Step 3: Assembling the Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches). If the dough resists rolling, let it rest for a few minutes, and then try again.
3. Spread the Buffalo Chicken Filling:
   Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly down the center of the rolled-out dough, leaving about 2 inches of space on each side. Be generous with the filling, but be careful not to overstuff it.
4. Fold and Seal the Dough:
   Fold the sides of the dough over the filling, bringing them toward the center. Pinch the ends and seams to seal the bread and prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. If needed, gently press the edges together.
5. Place on Baking Sheet:
   Carefully transfer the stuffed bread to your prepared baking sheet, placing the seam side down.

Step 4: Baking the Bread

1. Brush the Dough with Milk or Butter:
   For a golden, shiny crust, brush the top of the bread with milk or melted butter. This will give the bread a beautiful finish and enhance its flavor.
2. Bake the Bread:
   Bake the stuffed bread in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
3. Optional Topping:
   During the last 5 minutes of baking, you can sprinkle more shredded cheddar cheese on top of the bread to make it extra cheesy. Allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
4. Cool Before Slicing:
   Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling set and prevent it from spilling out when you cut into it.

Step 5: Serving the Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread

1. Slice and Serve:
   Use a sharp knife to cut the bread into thick slices, exposing the delicious buffalo chicken filling. Serve with extra buffalo sauce, ranch, or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
2. Optional Garnish:
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions to add color and a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the spiciness of the buffalo chicken.

Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread

• Bread Dough:
  If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough or bread dough for the base. This shortcut will save you time but still yield a delicious result.
• Buffalo Sauce:
  Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on your preference for spice. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the sauce, or use a mild buffalo sauce. For extra heat, add a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
• Cheese Choices:
  While mozzarella and cheddar are the go-to cheeses, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for some extra kick or gouda for a smoky flavor.
• Add-ins:
  For extra texture and flavor, you can add sautéed onions, peppers, or even bacon to the filling. Mushrooms also add a savory umami element that pairs well with buffalo chicken.
• Leftovers:
  Leftover buffalo chicken stuffed bread can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Variations of Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread

1. Chicken and Bacon Stuffed Bread:
   Add crispy bacon pieces to the filling for an irresistible combination of smoky bacon and spicy buffalo chicken.
2. Buffalo Chicken Dip Stuffed Bread:
   If you love buffalo chicken dip, turn it into a bread stuffing! Mix the chicken with cream cheese, sour cream, buffalo sauce, and shredded cheese for a creamy, dip-like filling.
3. Vegetarian Buffalo Cauliflower Stuffed Bread:
   Swap the chicken for roasted buffalo cauliflower for a vegetarian version of this stuffed bread. It has all the spice of buffalo chicken but with a hearty cauliflower filling.
4. Spicy Chicken Sausage Stuffed Bread:
   For a twist, use spicy chicken sausage or chorizo instead of shredded chicken. This adds more flavor and a bit of a spicy kick.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Dough Troubleshooting:

• Dough Too Sticky?
  If your dough feels too sticky and difficult to handle, simply add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes easier to knead. However, avoid adding too much flour, as it can make the dough tough.
• Dough Too Dry?
  If the dough is too dry and crumbly, add a little water (one teaspoon at a time) and continue kneading until you achieve a smooth and elastic texture.
• Dough Not Rising?
  If your dough isn’t rising as expected, ensure that the water you used to activate the yeast was at the right temperature (around 110°F). Too hot or too cold water can prevent the yeast from activating properly.

2. Oven Temperature:

• Keep an eye on the bread while it bakes, as oven temperatures can vary. If the top is browning too quickly and the center hasn’t finished cooking, you can loosely cover the bread with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

3. Perfecting the Shape:

• If you want a uniform stuffed bread that’s easy to slice, try shaping the dough into a long oval or rectangle before adding the filling. This will allow you to fold it over more neatly. If you’re looking for a more rustic look, you can simply fold and roll the dough in any shape you prefer.

4. Make it a Meal:

• To make this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread more substantial as a meal, consider adding more vegetables to the filling, like sautéed spinach, peppers, or mushrooms. These veggies can help balance out the richness of the chicken and cheese while adding more nutritional value to the dish.

Popular Variations and Substitutions

While the traditional Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread is already incredibly flavorful, you can easily modify it to fit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

1. Gluten-Free Option:

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make the dough. Be sure to check that the yeast and buffalo sauce are gluten-free as well, as some sauces contain hidden gluten. There are also ready-made gluten-free pizza doughs available that you could substitute for the homemade dough.

2. Vegan Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread:

For a vegan version, replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like cauliflower or vegan chicken. You can also substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese and use a non-dairy option like coconut or almond milk for brushing the dough. Use a vegan ranch dressing or vegan mayo to keep the creamy element while ensuring it’s plant-based.

3. Spicy Meat Lovers Stuffed Bread:

If you prefer to add a meatier flavor, you can mix the buffalo chicken with other proteins like spicy sausage, pepperoni, or bacon. These additions give the bread a more indulgent, savory kick that’s great for meat lovers. Just be sure to chop the meats finely before adding them to the filling to ensure they bake evenly.

4. Add More Heat:

For those who love extra heat, you can mix some sriracha or cayenne pepper into the buffalo sauce before adding it to the chicken. You could also use a hotter variety of hot sauce, like Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot Xtra Hot, to take the spice level up a notch.

5. Cheese Variations:

While mozzarella and cheddar are the classic choices, don’t hesitate to experiment with other cheeses:

• Pepper Jack: This cheese has a mild heat that pairs beautifully with buffalo sauce.
• Gouda: For a rich and slightly smoky flavor that complements the spicy chicken.
• Fontina: A creamy cheese that melts well and has a mild, nutty flavor.

6. Sweet and Spicy Version:

For a balance of sweet and spicy, you can add a touch of honey to the buffalo sauce or use sweet chili sauce in combination with buffalo sauce. This gives the bread a slightly sweet undertone that balances the heat from the buffalo sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread is a satisfying dish on its own, but you can elevate the meal by pairing it with a variety of sides. Here are some great ideas for serving alongside:

1. Classic Buffalo Sides:

• Celery and Carrot Sticks: These crunchy, fresh vegetables are often served with buffalo wings and complement the richness of the stuffed bread perfectly.
• Blue Cheese or Ranch Dressing: Serve extra dressing on the side for dipping the stuffed bread. You can even drizzle some over the top after baking for extra creaminess.

2. Salads:

• Simple Side Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the bread.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons can also balance the heat of the buffalo chicken with its creamy dressing.

3. Fries or Potato Wedges:

• Crispy French Fries or Baked Potato Wedges are a great addition for a hearty meal. You can even toss the fries in buffalo sauce for an extra spicy twist.

4. Pickled Vegetables:

• Pickled jalapeños, onions, or cucumbers add a tangy and slightly spicy contrast that cuts through the richness of the bread. The acidity in the pickles balances the savory flavors while adding a refreshing bite.

5. Soup Pairings:

• Pair the bread with a light soup like tomato bisque or a creamy potato leek soup for a comforting meal that hits all the right notes.

6. Drinks:

• Iced Tea: A glass of iced tea (sweetened or unsweetened) provides a refreshing balance to the spicy buffalo chicken bread.
• Beer: A cold lager or IPA pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce, enhancing the overall experience.
• Milk or Creamy Beverages: The richness of milk, a milkshake, or a creamy cocktail can help mellow out the heat if you’re someone who enjoys a cooling drink alongside spicy food.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread is the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and comfort food. With its combination of spicy buffalo chicken, creamy cheese, and soft, fluffy bread, it’s a meal or appetizer that’s guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, preparing dinner for your family, or just craving something delicious, this stuffed bread recipe is easy to make and will certainly impress.

With the ability to customize the filling to your liking and the option to make it ahead of time, this recipe offers endless possibilities for tweaking it to your taste. The crispy, cheesy, and flavorful result will make it a new favorite in your kitchen, and it’s sure to be requested again and again!

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread is an incredibly versatile, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner, a party, or a special gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of spicy buffalo chicken, melty cheese, and soft, buttery bread is simply irresistible.

The recipe offers plenty of room for customization—whether you prefer a spicier kick, a different protein, or a lighter version, there’s a way to make it your own. It’s a great dish to serve with a variety of sides, and it also makes for great leftovers. Plus, it’s easy to make in advance and even easier to enjoy.

Try this recipe today, and let it become one of your go-to comfort food favorites! Enjoy your delicious homemade Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread!

Yield: 8

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread Recipe

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Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bread is an irresistibly delicious dish that combines the bold and spicy flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting, warm goodness of a cheesy stuffed bread. It’s the ultimate fusion of two fan-favorite foods: the classic buffalo chicken wings and a fresh, homemade bread loaf. Whether you're hosting a game day party, preparing a family meal, or looking for a fun, new twist on dinner, this stuffed bread is sure to please everyone at the table.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade pizza dough)
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing for a classic touch)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• 1 tbsp butter (melted, for brushing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle (about 12x8 inches). You can stretch it by hand if needed.
4. Layer the filling: Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly along the center of the dough. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled blue cheese (if using).
5. Stuff the bread: Carefully fold in the sides of the dough over the chicken and cheese mixture, then roll the dough from one end to the other, like a log, to enclose the filling.
6. Seal the edges: Pinch the seams together to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
7. Brush with butter: Place the stuffed bread seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush the top with melted butter to give it a golden finish.
8. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into pieces and garnish with chopped green onions.

Notes

• Dough Options:
  While this recipe calls for homemade dough, you can save time by using store-bought pizza dough or ready-made bread dough. If using store-bought dough, follow the instructions on the package for proofing or baking.
  
• Buffalo Sauce:
  Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your preferred spice level. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or choose a milder variety. If you like it extra spicy, consider adding a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the filling.
  
• Cheese:
  Feel free to use a variety of cheeses. Mozzarella and cheddar are the most common, but you can experiment with pepper jack, gouda, or even cream cheese to add a creamy element to the filling.
  
• Chicken Alternatives:
  If you’re looking for a different protein, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, or you can use grilled chicken breast for a leaner option. Cauliflower is a great plant-based substitute for the chicken to make the recipe vegan.
  
• Make-Ahead Instructions:
  You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the bread. The dough can also be prepared and allowed to rise in the fridge overnight for convenience. If freezing the entire stuffed bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and bake directly from frozen (just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes).
  
• Toppings and Garnishes:
  Garnish the bread with chopped parsley or green onions for added color and freshness. You can also drizzle a bit of ranch or blue cheese dressing on top after baking for extra flavor.
  
• Serving Suggestions:
  Serve the stuffed bread with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a side salad to balance the richness. For a full meal, consider pairing it with crispy fries or potato wedges.