Here is a comprehensive guide to creating the ultimate BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli, complete with all the sections you’ve requested.
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๐๐ฅ The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli ๐งโจ
Introduction
Imagine a golden, flaky exterior giving way to a treasure trove of smoky, sweet, and savory fillings. That is the magic of the Stromboli. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Our BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli takes the classic Italian-American staple and gives it a Southern-inspired twist. We wrap a perfect pizza dough around tender, juicy chicken, smothers it in tangy BBQ sauce, loads it with melted provolone, and adds the sweet crunch of caramelized red onions. Each slice is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, making it the ultimate comfort food for game day, a family dinner, or any gathering where you want to impress.
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Ingredients
ยท For the Dough:
ยท 1 lb (450g) store-bought or homemade pizza dough, at room temperature
ยท For the Filling:
ยท 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
ยท 1 large red onion, julienned (thinly sliced)
ยท 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
ยท 1 cup (240ml)้ซๅ่ดจ BBQ sauce (your favorite brand), plus more for brushing
ยท 8 oz (225g) provolone cheese, thinly sliced or shredded
ยท 4 oz (115g) mozzarella cheese, shredded (for extra meltiness)
ยท For the Finish:
ยท 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water (egg wash)
ยท 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)
ยท Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
ยท Extra BBQ sauce and ranch dressing for dipping
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History & Formation
While often confused with a calzone, the Stromboli has its own distinct identity. It was popularized in the 1950s in the Philadelphia area, particularly in Italian-American neighborhoods. Unlike a calzone, which is a half-moon shape, a Stromboli is rolled like a jelly roll (or a burrito) and then baked. This creates a beautiful spiral of fillings in every bite. The name is said to be inspired by the 1950 film Stromboli, starring Ingrid Bergman, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to this humble, hearty dish. Our version “forms” this classic shape but fills it with the bold, American flavors of BBQ chicken.
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Instructions & Methods
1. Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the julienned red onion and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, until they are soft, sweet, and golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken with ยพ cup of the BBQ sauce. Mix well to ensure every piece is coated.
3. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Shape the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 10×14 inches and ยผ-inch thick.
5. Layer the Fillings: Position the dough so the long side is facing you. Leaving a 1-inch border along the edges, start layering:
ยท First, lay down the provolone slices, covering the bottom two-thirds of the dough.
ยท Evenly spread the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese.
ยท Scatter the caramelized red onions over the chicken.
ยท Top with the shredded mozzarella.
6. Roll the Stromboli: Starting from the long side closest to you, carefully and tightly roll the dough over the filling, like a jelly roll. Tuck the filling in as you go. Pinch the seam and the ends firmly to seal, so the cheese doesn’t escape during baking.
7. Finish and Bake: Carefully transfer the Stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush the entire surface with the egg wash. This will give it a beautiful, shiny, golden crust. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds. Using a sharp knife, cut 3-4 small slits on the top to allow steam to escape.
8. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits.
9. Rest and Serve: Let the Stromboli rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This is crucial; it allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents the filling from spilling out. Slice with a serrated knife, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm with extra BBQ sauce and ranch dressing for dipping.
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Benefits
ยท Protein-Packed: The chicken and cheeses provide a substantial amount of protein, making this a satisfying and filling meal.
ยท Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic base. You can swap the chicken for pulled pork, add bacon, use different cheeses like cheddar or gouda, or throw in some pickled jalapeรฑos for heat.
ยท Great for Leftovers: It tastes delicious the next day, either cold or reheated in the oven or air fryer.
ยท Crowd-Pleaser: It combines universally loved flavors (BBQ, cheese, bread) into a fun, shareable format.
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Nutrition (Approximate, per serving, based on 6 servings)
Please note: This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
ยท Calories: 520-600
ยท Fat: 22-28g
ยท Carbohydrates: 50-55g
ยท Protein: 30-35g
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Lovers
This Stromboli is for the lovers of:
ยท Game Day Food: It’s the ultimate handheld snack for watching the big game.
ยท Comfort Food: Warm, cheesy, and carb-loaded, it’s pure culinary happiness.
ยท BBQ Anything: If you love the smoky, tangy flavor of barbecue, this is your dish.
ยท Cheese Pulls: The provolone and mozzarella create an Instagram-worthy, stretchy cheese pull with every slice.
ยท Creative Leftovers: It’s a brilliant and delicious way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken.
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Conclusion
The BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. From the satisfying crunch of the golden crust to the irresistible, cheesy, BBQ-infused center, every element is designed to delight. It bridges the gap between a classic Italian-American staple and the bold, smoky flavors of American BBQ. Whether you serve it as the centerpiece of a casual dinner or as the star of your party spread, this Stromboli promises to deliver smiles and satisfaction in every single bite. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds.