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.
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.
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 Family moments gathered around this cheesy pull-apart bread always make for warm memories.
Notes
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
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread), Milk (cheese butter), Egg (mayonnaise—check label). May contain Soy (depending on mayonnaise or bread brand). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save This dish is perfect for a cozy meal and sharing with loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of bread works best?
A large round sourdough loaf provides the ideal structure and flavor for stuffing and baking.
- → Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, mozzarella and cheddar blend well, but Parmesan topping adds a sharp finish; other cheeses can be used based on preference.
- → How should the bread be cut?
Slice the loaf in a crosshatch pattern about one inch apart, cutting almost through but not slicing the base to hold fillings.
- → Is precooked chicken required?
Using cooked shredded chicken, like leftovers, works best for mixing into the filling and heating through evenly during baking.
- → What variations can I try?
Add cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor; a pinch of red pepper flakes brings heat.