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.
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 Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Save Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
A large round sourdough loaf is ideal as it holds the filling well and crisps nicely when baked.
- → Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, cooked turkey or even bacon bits can be used to vary the flavor profile.
- → How should the bread be cut before filling?
Use a serrated knife to cut a crosshatch pattern into the loaf, slicing almost through but leaving the base intact to keep it pull-apart.
- → Are there any recommended toppings to enhance flavor?
Grated Parmesan and chopped fresh chives add a savory finish and bright herbal notes.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Assemble the bread with filling and refrigerate briefly, but bake fresh for best melty texture and flavor.