Save A comforting, gooey pull-apart bread loaded with succulent leftover chicken, melty cheese, and savory herbs—perfect for sharing at parties or as a cozy family meal.
I first served this at a family gathering and it disappeared within minutes everyone loved the gooey cheese and tender chicken combination.
Ingredients
- Bread: 1 large round sourdough loaf (about 1 lb / 450 g)
- Filling: 2 cups (250 g) cooked chicken, shredded (leftovers work great), 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter melted, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 garlic cloves minced, 3 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried), ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Topping: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon fresh chives chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Using a serrated knife cut the bread loaf in a crosshatch pattern slicing almost to the base but not all the way through creating 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Be careful not to cut through the bottom.
- Step 3:
- In a bowl mix together the shredded chicken mozzarella cheddar mayonnaise garlic parsley salt pepper and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Step 4:
- Gently pull apart the bread sections and stuff the chicken-cheese mixture evenly between all the cuts.
- Step 5:
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the stuffed bread allowing it to seep into the crevices.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and chives (if using) over the top.
- Step 7:
- Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 8 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 9:
- Let cool for 5 minutes then serve warm. Pull apart pieces to enjoy.
Save This recipe always brings out warm smiles and happy bellies at our table especially during cozy family dinners.
Notes
Substitute cooked turkey for chicken if desired. Try adding cooked bacon bits sautéed mushrooms or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. For a spicy kick add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. Serve with a simple green salad or marinara sauce for dipping.
Required Tools
Serrated bread knife Mixing bowl Spoon or spatula Baking sheet Parchment paper Aluminum foil
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 31 g Protein 21 g
Save Enjoy this delicious pull-apart bread warm for the best gooey cheesy experience every time.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → How do I prepare the bread for stuffing?
Use a serrated knife to cut the loaf in a crosshatch pattern, ensuring not to slice all the way through the bottom, which allows the filling to penetrate while keeping the loaf intact.
- → Can I substitute turkey for chicken?
Yes, cooked turkey works well as a substitute and adds a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- → What cheeses are recommended for this dish?
Shredded mozzarella and cheddar create a rich, gooey texture. Parmesan is sprinkled on top for a sharp finishing touch.
- → Are there suggestions to enhance flavor?
Try adding bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.
- → What serving suggestions complement the bread?
Serve warm alongside a simple green salad or marinara sauce for dipping to balance rich flavors.