If you love bold flavors wrapped up in ooey-gooey cheese and tender chicken, then this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to dish. Imagine spicy buffalo chicken, fresh herbs, and a cheesy medley all tucked into a golden, flaky stromboli crust that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a game day treat, this recipe delivers that perfect punch of heat balanced by creamy ranch and melty cheeses that will have everyone reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential to building that irresistible mix of spicy, creamy, and cheesy flavors in your stromboli. Each component plays its part in layering textures, colors, and tastes, making every bite a satisfying experience.
- 1 pound pizza dough: The fluffy, soft base that wraps all the delicious fillings together.
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken: Tender, protein-packed and ready to soak up the buffalo sauce.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Provides the signature spicy kick, with homemade buffalo sauce giving you full control over the heat level.
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of fresh, herbaceous brightness that balances the spice.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives: Brings a mild onion flavor that complements the overall savory notes.
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped: A little extra heat and crunch to elevate the flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing: Creamy and cooling, it’s the perfect counterpart to the spicy buffalo sauce.
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional): For those who adore that tangy punch, blue cheese adds complexity.
- 1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella: Melts beautifully to create that stretchy, cheesy goodness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and depth to the cheese filling.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan or asiago cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty crust finish.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Gives a subtle crunch and lovely visual contrast.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties all the flavors together perfectly.
- 1 egg, beaten: Used to brush the dough for a gorgeous golden sheen when baked.
How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 450° F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This ensures the strombolis get that golden-crisp crust we’re aiming for without sticking or burning. Having your setup ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Mix the Buffalo Chicken Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the tender shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, chopped cilantro, fresh chives, and jalapeño. This mixture is the heart of the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe, bringing a fantastically spicy and herbaceous filling that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Divide your pizza dough into four equal balls. On a floured surface, roll each ball into about an 8-inch circle or oval shape. This will serve as the canvas for creating your stromboli masterpiece.
Step 4: Assemble Your Strombolis
Spread ranch dressing evenly over each dough circle. Then layer the buffalo chicken mixture on top, followed by equal amounts of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. If you love extra buffalo sauce, drizzle some on now. Fold in two sides of the dough, then roll it up tightly like a cinnamon roll, pinching to seal the edges securely. Place each stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet so they bake evenly and hold their shape.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Mix parmesan or asiago cheese with sesame seeds and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Brush the top of each stromboli with the beaten egg, then sprinkle your cheese and seed mixture generously on top. Use a sharp knife to cut two small slits in the tops—this allows steam to escape and helps create that perfect crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the strombolis at 450° F for 10 minutes to start, then lower the temperature to 375° F and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma alone will have you counting down the minutes!
How to Serve Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a fresh contrast and a splash of color. A drizzle of ranch or extra buffalo sauce on the side invites guests to customize their heat and creaminess just how they like.
Side Dishes
Serve with crunchy celery sticks or a crisp green salad to lighten up the meal and add refreshing crunch. For a heartier option, roasted potatoes or a simple coleslaw work beautifully alongside the strombolis.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the strombolis into pinwheel-sized portions for a party platter, making them perfect finger foods. You can also create mini strombolis by using smaller dough portions for fun appetizers or lunchbox treats that kids and adults will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover strombolis tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh, so the flavors stay vibrant and the crust remains tender after reheating.
Freezing
These strombolis freeze wonderfully! After assembling (but before baking), wrap each stromboli individually in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe anytime you crave it.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the frozen stromboli and bake at 375° F for 20-25 minutes (more if still frozen), or warm leftover baked strombolis in the oven at 350° F for about 15 minutes to bring back crispness without drying out the filling. Avoid the microwave to keep that fabulous crust texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds extra flavor and keeps the prep quick and easy without sacrificing taste.
Is there a vegetarian option for this stromboli?
Yes! You can swap shredded chicken with roasted veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach mixed with buffalo sauce, keeping the same spicy and cheesy magic.
How spicy is this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe?
The heat level is moderate and mostly comes from the buffalo sauce and jalapeño, but you can adjust the spiciness by altering the amount of buffalo sauce or leaving out the jalapeño altogether.
Can I prepare the strombolis completely ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble them, refrigerate overnight, and bake them fresh the next day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dough will be chilled.
What’s the best way to serve leftover strombolis?
Leftover strombolis reheat best in the oven to restore their crisp crust and gooey cheese—pair with a fresh salad or crunchy veggies for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s fun to prepare, bursting with bold flavors, and perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without fuss. Give it a go and enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite with your favorite people!
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Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis are spicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. These strombolis combine tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce with gooey mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, all wrapped in soft pizza dough and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a satisfying appetizer or main dish for game day or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 pound pizza dough
Filling
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (see notes for homemade buffalo sauce)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (see notes for homemade ranch)
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan or asiago cheese
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the buffalo sauce, chopped cilantro or parsley, chopped chives, and seeded chopped jalapeño, mixing well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Prepare the dough: Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into an approximately 8-inch circle or oval shape to create the base for your stromboli.
- Assemble the stromboli: Spread about 2 tablespoons of ranch dressing evenly over each dough piece. Next, layer the buffalo chicken mixture evenly on top of the ranch. Sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. If desired, drizzle extra buffalo sauce on top for added heat. Fold two opposite sides of the dough inward, then carefully roll it up like a cinnamon roll to enclose the filling, pinching the edges to seal well. Place the seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add the topping: In a small bowl, mix the grated parmesan or asiago cheese with sesame seeds and Italian seasoning. Brush the tops of each stromboli with the beaten egg to help the topping stick and develop a golden brown color. Then sprinkle the cheese and seasoning mixture evenly across the top. Using a sharp knife, cut two small slits into the top of each stromboli to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake the stromboli: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 minutes at 450°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 20 to 30 minutes or until the strombolis are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with additional buffalo sauce and/or ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy your delicious cheesy buffalo chicken strombolis!
Notes
- For homemade buffalo sauce: Combine melted butter with hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot) in a 1:1 ratio and mix well.
- For homemade ranch dressing: Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
- If you prefer milder heat, omit the jalapeño or reduce the amount of buffalo sauce used.
- You can substitute parsley with cilantro or vice versa depending on preference.
- To ensure dough does not stick, lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin.
