BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli is the perfect fusion of smoky barbecue flavor, tender chicken, and melted cheese wrapped in golden, crisp pizza dough. It combines the comfort of homemade pizza with the convenience of a stuffed, sliceable roll that is ideal for sharing. Whether served for family dinner, game day, or casual entertaining, this stromboli delivers satisfying flavor in every bite.
The first time I made this recipe, I was looking for a creative way to use leftover grilled chicken. Adding barbecue sauce and plenty of cheese transformed simple ingredients into something memorable. As it baked, the aroma of smoky sauce and bubbling cheese filled the kitchen. Once sliced, the spiral layers of chicken and cheese looked as impressive as they tasted. What makes this recipe especially appealing is its adaptability—you can adjust the fillings, spice level, and cheese blend to suit your preferences. It is hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is easy to assemble, packed with bold flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the gooey interior. It is versatile enough for weeknight meals or entertaining guests.
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BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli: A Bold and Cheesy Crowd-Pleaser
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli is a golden, baked rolled pizza filled with tender shredded chicken tossed in barbecue sauce, melted mozzarella, and red onions, all wrapped in soft pizza dough and baked until crisp and bubbly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
- Roll out pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 10×14 inches.
- Spread the BBQ chicken evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and sliced red onions over the chicken. Add chopped cilantro if using.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log, sealing the edges and tucking the ends underneath.
- Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with garlic powder and oregano.
- Cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Ensure the dough is sealed tightly to prevent filling leakage.
- Serve with extra barbecue sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pizza Dough
Fresh pizza dough forms the base of the stromboli, creating a golden and slightly crisp crust while remaining soft inside. Store-bought dough works well for convenience, but homemade dough adds an extra layer of flavor.
Cooked Chicken Breast
Shredded or diced chicken provides the hearty protein component. Rotisserie chicken works particularly well, offering tenderness and seasoning that complement the barbecue sauce.
Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue sauce delivers the signature smoky, tangy sweetness that defines this stromboli. Choose a sauce that balances sweetness and spice according to your preference.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella melts smoothly and creates that irresistible cheese pull when sliced. It provides mild creaminess that balances the bold sauce.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar adds sharper flavor and depth, enhancing the overall richness of the filling.
Red Onion
Thinly sliced red onion contributes a mild bite and subtle sweetness that complements the barbecue flavor.
Fresh Cilantro
Chopped cilantro adds brightness and a fresh herbal note, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Egg
An egg wash brushed over the dough ensures a golden, glossy finish after baking.
Olive Oil
Olive oil lightly coats the dough and enhances browning while adding subtle richness.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder adds savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Aim for even thickness to ensure consistent baking.
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with barbecue sauce, stirring until evenly coated. Spread the mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a one-inch border around the edges.
Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the chicken mixture. Add sliced red onion and chopped cilantro evenly across the surface. Lightly sprinkle garlic powder for additional flavor.
Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log, sealing the edges and pinching the seam closed. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the top with beaten egg and lightly drizzle with olive oil. Cut a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and fully cooked. Allow the stromboli to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and baking time is 20–25 minutes, bringing the total time to about 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving for extended periods to prevent a soft crust.
Variations and Customizations
BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli is highly customizable. For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. I once incorporated smoked gouda alongside mozzarella, which enhanced the smoky character beautifully.
If you prefer a lighter version, use whole wheat pizza dough and reduced-fat cheese. You can also substitute grilled turkey for chicken while keeping the barbecue flavor intact.
Adding vegetables such as sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms introduces additional texture and nutrients. For a sweeter profile, include thin pineapple slices for a barbecue-inspired twist.
For a crispier crust, brush the dough lightly with olive oil before adding the filling. If you enjoy extra sauce, serve additional barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
These small adjustments allow you to tailor the stromboli to your taste while preserving its bold and comforting essence.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Seal the Edges Well
Properly sealing prevents cheese from leaking during baking.
Do Not Overfill
Too much filling may cause the stromboli to split open.
Allow Resting Time
Let it cool slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Use Quality Barbecue Sauce
The sauce defines the flavor, so choose one you enjoy.
Slice with a Sharp Knife
A sharp blade ensures neat, even portions.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and saves time.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling, then reheat in the oven.
What other cheeses can I use?
Provolone, gouda, or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Avoid excess sauce and bake until fully golden.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild barbecue flavor and melted cheese make it appealing to children.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli is a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines smoky barbecue chicken with melted cheese in a crisp, golden crust. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or casual entertaining. With bold flavors and comforting texture, this stromboli is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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