Cheesy Leftover Chicken Bake (Printer View)

Pull-apart sourdough loaf filled with shredded chicken, melted mozzarella and cheddar, seasoned with fresh herbs.

# Components:

→ Bread

01 - 1 large round sourdough loaf (about 1 lb)

→ Filling

02 - 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
03 - 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
04 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
05 - ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
06 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
07 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
09 - ½ teaspoon salt
10 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
11 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

→ Topping

12 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)

# Method steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Cut the sourdough loaf in a crosshatch pattern into 1-inch cubes, cutting almost to the base without slicing through the bottom.
03 - In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, mozzarella, cheddar, mayonnaise, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly mixed.
04 - Gently pull apart bread sections and evenly distribute the chicken-cheese mixture between the cuts.
05 - Drizzle melted butter over the stuffed bread, allowing it to seep into the crevices.
06 - Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped chives over the top if using.
07 - Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and bake for 15 minutes.
08 - Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
09 - Let cool for 5 minutes before serving warm. Pull apart pieces to enjoy.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-pot meal
  • Freezer-friendly
02 -
  • Substitute cooked turkey for chicken if desired
  • Try adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
03 -
  • Use a serrated bread knife for clean cuts without tearing
  • Let the bread cool slightly before pulling apart to avoid burning
Return