Name: BBQ Chicken Stromboli: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 ¼ cups warm water (105-115°F); 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!); 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand!); ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon water

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BBQ Chicken Stromboli: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that marries the smoky, tangy allure of barbecue chicken with the comforting, cheesy embrace of a classic Italian stromboli! This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

While the stromboli itself hails from Italian-American roots, born in Philadelphia as a close cousin to the calzone, the addition of barbecue chicken gives it a distinctly American twist. Think of it as a delicious fusion, a culinary handshake between two beloved comfort food traditions. The beauty of this BBQ Chicken Stromboli lies in its versatility and crowd-pleasing nature.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The crisp, golden-brown crust gives way to a warm, gooey interior filled with tender, shredded chicken coated in a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, all mingling with melted cheese. It’s savory, satisfying, and incredibly easy to customize to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun party appetizer, or a portable lunch option, this BBQ Chicken Stromboli is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 ¼ cups warm water (105-115°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing

For the BBQ Chicken Filling:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand!)
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Egg Wash:

1 large egg
1 tablespoon water

Preparing the Dough:

Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This step is crucial to ensure your dough rises properly. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it might be old and you’ll need to use a fresh packet.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is important for the dough’s texture and flavor.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture. Then, gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time. Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which gives the stromboli its chewy texture.
First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This rise is essential for a light and airy stromboli. The warmer the environment, the faster the dough will rise.

Preparing the BBQ Chicken Filling:

Sauté the Red Onion: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and slightly caramelized. Sautéing the onion brings out its sweetness and mellows its sharpness, adding depth of flavor to the filling.
Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, sautéed red onion, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cilantro (if using). Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt or pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.

Assembling the Stromboli:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the stromboli from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air.
Roll Out the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches. Try to keep the dough as even as possible in thickness.
Add the Filling: Spread the BBQ chicken filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Make sure the filling is not too thick, or it will be difficult to roll up the stromboli.
Roll Up the Stromboli: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll up the dough like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam to seal it tightly. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Transfer to Baking Sheet: Carefully transfer the stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
Make Slits: Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, make several diagonal slits across the top of the stromboli. This will allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the stromboli from bursting.
Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the entire surface of the stromboli with the egg wash. This will give it a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly glossy finish.

Baking the Stromboli:

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the stromboli is golden brown and the filling is heated through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Rest: Remove the stromboli from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny.
Slice and Serve: Slice the stromboli into 1-inch thick slices and serve warm. You can serve it with extra BBQ sauce for dipping, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack cheese would add a spicy kick, while provolone cheese would provide a milder, creamier flavor.
Vegetable Additions: Add some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicier stromboli.
Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Store the filling in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Freezing Instructions: You can freeze the baked stromboli for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Dough Alternatives: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough or puff pastry instead of making your own dough. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Puff pastry will bake much faster than pizza dough.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Pair with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or honey mustard.
This stromboli is perfect for parties, potlucks, or game day gatherings.

Conclusion:

This BBQ Chicken Stromboli isn’t just another recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce to the savory chicken and gooey cheese, every bite is a delightful experience. I truly believe this stromboli is a must-try because its incredibly versatile, surprisingly easy to make, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner, a game-day gathering, or even a potluck contribution that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Why is this BBQ Chicken Stromboli a must-try? Because it takes familiar flavors and elevates them into something truly special. Its a fun and interactive way to enjoy barbecue chicken, and the stromboli format makes it easy to serve and eat. Plus, the customizable filling allows you to tailor it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Looking for serving suggestions? I love to serve this stromboli with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad to balance the richness. A dollop of extra barbecue sauce or a drizzle of ranch dressing on top adds an extra layer of flavor. For a spicier kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños to the filling. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own. Try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or provolone, for a unique flavor profile. You could also add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the filling. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with black beans or seasoned tofu. Get creative and see what delicious combinations you can come up with! Here are a few more ideas to get you started: * Hawaiian Stromboli: Add pineapple chunks and ham to the filling for a tropical twist. * Spicy BBQ Stromboli: Incorporate some chili powder or cayenne pepper into the barbecue sauce for a fiery kick. * Deluxe Stromboli: Add bacon crumbles and caramelized onions for an extra layer of indulgence. The possibilities are endless! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature BBQ Chicken Stromboli. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. I’m confident that it will become a new favorite in your household. Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite variations? What did your family and friends think? Please, share your photos and stories in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. So, go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a batch of this irresistible BBQ Chicken Stromboli. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help. Enjoy!