Ultimate Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate appetizer that’s packed with flavor and perfect for sharing, look no further than this Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pull-Apart Bread. This savory, cheesy creation combines tender chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce with creamy ranch dressing, all nestled in soft, pull-apart bread. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a casual evening with friends, this recipe will have everyone coming back for more.

This pull-apart bread is not only delicious but incredibly easy to make, so even if you’re not an expert in the kitchen, you’ll impress everyone with your skills. The rich flavors of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are perfectly complemented by the gooey melted cheese, making it a comforting and irresistible dish. Ready in just under an hour, it’s the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and savory goodness. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

This Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pull-Apart Bread combines two crowd favorites—buffalo chicken and cheesy bread—into one irresistible dish. It’s the ultimate party food, perfect for game day, family gatherings, or just when you want something fun to snack on. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become your go-to appetizer:

Flavor Explosion: The spicy buffalo sauce paired with creamy ranch dressing creates a perfect balance of heat and richness, elevating the bread to new heights.
Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced cooking techniques. The pull-apart style means you don’t need to worry about fancy slicing or perfect plating—it’s all about flavor and simplicity.
Perfect for Sharing: With its pull-apart design, this dish encourages sharing and brings a fun, interactive element to your meals. It’s perfect for a crowd and ensures everyone gets a cheesy, spicy bite.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the level of heat by adding more buffalo sauce or toning it down with extra ranch. You can also swap out the cheese to your liking—mozzarella works just as well as cheddar.
Crowd-Pleaser: This is a dish that pleases all palates. Whether your guests are fans of spicy food or not, they’ll find this dish irresistible. The mix of creamy, spicy, and cheesy makes it universally loved.

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Ingredients

1 loaf of ciabatta bread (or any crusty bread of your choice)
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup blue cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
1 tablespoon melted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Used

Large bowl
Knife
Baking tray
Aluminum foil
Pastry brush

Directions & Instructions

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
Prepare Chicken: In a large bowl, combine your cooked, shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken in the sauce.
Prepare Bread: Cut your ciabatta loaf into a grid pattern, making sure to not slice all the way through the bottom, leaving the base intact for the pull-apart effect.
Stuff Bread: Spread a layer of cream cheese inside the slits of the bread. Then, carefully stuff the buffalo chicken mixture into each slit. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture, ensuring each section is packed with cheesy goodness.
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Brush and Bake: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Cover the bread with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes.
Finish Baking: After the bread has baked, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden brown.
Serve: Once the bread is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with optional chopped green onions for a fresh garnish.

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Nutritional Information

This Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pull-Apart Bread is a flavorful indulgence, and here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional content per serving (based on a 12-serving loaf):

Calories: 250-300 kcal per serving
Fat: 16-18g
Carbohydrates: 20-22g
Protein: 10-12g
Fiber: 1-2g
Sugar: 2-3g
Sodium: 500-600mg

Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the exact ingredients and portions used. For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cheese and lower-sodium ranch dressing.

Prep Time and Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Heat: Add extra buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
Meat-Free Version: Replace the chicken with a vegetarian alternative like shredded cauliflower or mushrooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, any crusty bread will work, such as baguette or sourdough. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the bread up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for the best results.

Pro Tips By Lyndy

Tip 1: For extra flavor, use a combination of buffalo sauce and a touch of honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
Tip 2: Be careful not to overfill the bread. A little bit of stuffing goes a long way!
Tip 3: Try adding a layer of spinach or kale to add some greens and a nutritional boost.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of celery and carrot sticks, and it also makes a great dip for a ranch or blue cheese dressing. Serve it alongside a refreshing salad or even as a standalone appetizer at your next gathering.