If you’ve ever wondered how to transform a simple loaf of bread into a mouthwatering masterpiece, this Chicken Stuffed French Bread Recipe is just what you need. It’s bursting with tender shredded chicken, creamy mayo and sour cream, and melty cheeses all baked right inside a crispy French bread shell. The layers of flavor and textures make it a delightful treat that feels both comforting and indulgent—perfect for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or whenever you want to wow guests with something hearty yet easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple but essential ingredients is all it takes to craft this delectable dish. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s delivering rich flavor, creamy texture, or a beautiful melty finish that brings everything together.
- 1 large French bread loaf: Provides the perfect crunchy and chewy base that holds all the delicious filling.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded): The star protein that adds a hearty, savory bite to this dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté aromatics and add subtle richness.
- 1/2 small onion (finely chopped): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a warm and fragrant spiciness.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, tangy texture that binds the filling.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a smooth tang and moisture to keep the chicken juicy.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully with a mild flavor, perfect for gooey cheesecake effect.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a sharper, savory contrast to the mozzarella.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to complement the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note.
- Butter for brushing (optional): Adds a golden finish and extra richness when brushed on the crust.
How to Make Chicken Stuffed French Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s nice and ready when the filling is assembled. Carefully slice your large French loaf in half lengthwise, then scoop out the soft inner bread, leaving about a half-inch thick shell on both halves. Don’t discard the bread you remove—you can chop it finely and mix it into your filling for extra texture or save it for breadcrumbs later. Setting the hollowed bread aside gives you a perfect vessel for all that creamy chicken goodness.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil, then add the finely chopped onion. Cook until the onion turns soft and translucent, which usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes. This step is critical—the sweetness from the onion balances the savory chicken beautifully. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. These quick but flavorful sautéed vegetables create a wonderful foundation for the filling’s rich taste.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the sautéed onion and garlic. Then add the mayonnaise and sour cream for that irresistible creamy texture. Toss in both the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, the salt, black pepper, paprika, and chopped fresh parsley. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. This mixture is the heart of the Chicken Stuffed French Bread Recipe, packed with flavor and ready to be spooned into your bread shells.
Step 4: Stuff and Bake
Divide the chicken concoction evenly between your hollowed French bread halves, pressing gently to fill every inch. Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet to catch any drips. For an extra touch of indulgence, brush the top crust with butter to help it brown beautifully while baking. Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Baking not only melds the flavors but also crisps the bread’s edges for a fantastic contrast.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Once baked to perfection, allow the bread to cool for a few minutes. Then slice it into generous portions and serve warm, letting that gooey cheesy chicken filling shine with every bite. This final step completes your Chicken Stuffed French Bread Recipe, ready to bring smiles and satisfy hungry appetites.
How to Serve Chicken Stuffed French Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chives add a lovely pop of color and freshness that balances the creamy, rich filling. You might also add a light dusting of smoked paprika or cracked black pepper on top for a little visual and flavor enhancement.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables or a simple tomato soup also complement the savory chicken and cheese, turning the meal into a satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Chicken Stuffed French Bread Recipe as individual mini boats by slicing the bread into smaller sections before stuffing and baking. This is perfect for parties or casual gatherings. You can also experiment by adding toppings like crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or even bits of spinach right into the filling for personal flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or keep them airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify after a day, making cold or reheated slices surprisingly delicious.
Freezing
To freeze, prepare and stuff the bread without baking, then wrap it well in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftover slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust from getting soggy, but if short on time, a quick zap works too.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while adding great flavor to the filling of your Chicken Stuffed French Bread Recipe.
What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?
Feel free to mix in chopped spinach, crispy bacon bits, or sliced green onions to customize the filling to your taste preferences and add layers of flavor and texture.
Is it okay to use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can swap mozzarella and cheddar for any melting cheeses you love, such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
How do I get a crispier bread crust?
For an extra crunchy crust, broil the stuffed bread for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein and adjust seasonings to maintain the savory punch.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Stuffed French Bread Recipe is a total game changer—easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve guests. With a crispy bread shell and a creamy, cheesy chicken filling, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with eager smiles. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try; it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Print
Chicken Stuffed French Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Chicken Stuffed French Bread recipe combines tender shredded chicken with a creamy, cheesy filling nestled inside a crisp French bread loaf. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing main dish, it’s flavorful, easy to make, and ideal for a cozy dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 large French bread loaf
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional
- Butter for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed bread.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread loaf horizontally in half. Carefully hollow out the center of each half, leaving about a 1/2-inch thick shell. Reserve the removed bread pieces for optional use.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together thoroughly until well blended.
- Stuff the Bread: Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into the hollowed-out bread halves, spreading it to fill the cavity completely.
- Optional Butter Brush: For added richness and a golden crust, brush the tops of the bread halves with butter before baking.
- Bake: Place the stuffed bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, slice into servings, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a convenient, time-saving option.
- Customize the filling by adding chopped spinach, bacon, or green onions to elevate the flavor.
- For an extra crispy crust, broil the stuffed bread for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
