Save to Pinterest Combine two beloved Italian-American classics with this Chicken Parm Stuffed Garlic Bread. This recipe takes a crusty baguette, hollows it out, and fills it with a savory mixture of tender chicken and marinara sauce, topped with a bubbling layer of mozzarella and Parmesan. It is a hearty, flavorful dish that works perfectly as a stand-out appetizer or a satisfying main course.
Save to Pinterest Creating these boats is a simple way to elevate your bread game. By spreading garlic butter inside the bread before adding the filling, you ensure that every inch of the baguette is infused with aromatic garlic and herbs, preventing the bread from becoming dry while it bakes to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 large baguettes or 4 small demi-baguettes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a medium bowl, combine cooked chicken, marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Step 3
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt until fully combined.
- Step 4
- Slice the baguettes in half lengthwise, then hollow out some of the bread in the center to create a boat for the filling, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
- Step 5
- Spread the garlic butter evenly inside each bread boat.
- Step 6
- Fill each bread boat with the chicken marinara mixture, distributing evenly.
- Step 7
- Top generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Step 8
- Place the stuffed bread on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Step 9
- Let cool 5 minutes. Slice and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For maximum convenience, you can substitute the cooked chicken breast with a store-bought rotisserie chicken. This significantly cuts down on preparation time without sacrificing flavor.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To customize this dish, consider adding sautéed spinach or roasted peppers to the chicken and marinara mixture. This adds extra depth of flavor and a boost of nutrients to every bite.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these garlic bread boats with a fresh side salad to create a complete meal. This dish also pairs exceptionally well with a light Italian red wine to complement the rich tomato and cheese flavors.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and satisfying Chicken Parm Stuffed Garlic Bread as your next family favorite. It is a simple yet impressive way to serve classic Italian flavors in a unique and delicious format.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saving substitute. Simply shred or dice it to your preferred texture and mix with the marinara sauce and seasonings as directed.
- → How do I prevent the bread from getting too soggy?
Hollow out the center of the baguette halves carefully, leaving a sturdy 1/2-inch border. This creates a sturdy container for the filling. Avoid over-soaking with sauce and ensure proper baking temperature for a crispy exterior.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed bread up to 4 hours in advance. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. You can also freeze assembled bread boats for up to one month.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A light Italian red wine such as Chianti or Barbera complements the marinara and cheese flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio offers a refreshing contrast.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this?
Sauté spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms separately and fold them into the chicken marinara mixture before filling. These additions enhance flavor and nutrition without compromising the texture.
- → What's the best way to serve this?
Serve immediately while the cheese is still bubbly and the bread is warm. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes. Pair with a crisp side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.