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.
This recipe is a favorite for using up leftover chicken and always impresses guests with its gooey texture and savory flavors.
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 My family always gathers around eagerly when I make this dish, making it a true comfort food favorite.
Nutritional Information
Per serving contains Calories: 410, Total Fat: 23 g, Carbohydrates: 31 g, Protein: 21 g.
Required Tools
Serrated bread knife, mixing bowl, spoon or spatula, baking sheet, parchment paper, aluminum foil.
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread), Milk (cheese butter), Egg (mayonnaise—check label). May contain Soy depending on mayonnaise or bread brand. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save This cheesy leftover chicken bake is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for any occasion.