BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli

Serves 6–8)

For the Stromboli:

• 1 refrigerated pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for dipping)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced red onion (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water

Optional Toppings:

• Sesame seeds or Everything Bagel seasoning (for sprinkling)
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. If using vegetables like red onion or bell peppers, sauté them briefly in a skillet over medium heat until softened (optional).

3. Roll Out the Dough

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches).
2. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared baking sheet.

4. Assemble the Stromboli

1. Leaving a 1-inch border around the edges, spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the center of the dough.
2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the chicken.
3. Add optional toppings like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños.

5. Fold and Seal

1. Fold the long sides of the dough over the filling, overlapping slightly in the middle.
2. Fold the short ends of the dough inward to seal completely, pressing gently to ensure the edges stick together.
3. Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a tight seal.

6. Add the Egg Wash

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water.
2. Brush the egg wash evenly over the top of the stromboli for a golden, shiny crust.
3. Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds or Everything Bagel seasoning over the top for added flavor and texture.

7. Bake

1. Use a sharp knife to cut 3–4 small slits in the top of the stromboli to allow steam to escape during baking.
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.

8. Cool and Serve

1. Let the stromboli cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve with extra BBQ sauce, ranch, or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Dough: If you have time, make your own pizza dough for an extra-flaky crust.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overload the stromboli with too many fillings, as this can make it difficult to seal and roll.
• Experiment with Toppings: Add crispy bacon, sliced mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and variety.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the stromboli, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Why This Recipe Works

This BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli combines the bold flavors of BBQ sauce and shredded chicken with the creamy richness of melted cheese, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. The result is a handheld masterpiece that’s as satisfying to eat as it is impressive to serve. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or appetizer, this stromboli delivers big on flavor and convenience.

Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Dish

Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, looking for a fun dinner idea, or simply craving BBQ chicken pizza in a new form, this BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli is sure to delight. Its savory filling, gooey cheese, and golden crust make it a standout dish that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to suit any taste.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this cheesy, BBQ-packed stromboli might just inspire others to try it too! 🍗✨