Few dishes strike the perfect balance between indulgence and ease like Garlic Butter Chicken Stuffed Garlic Bread. It’s loaded with rich, savory flavors, soft and gooey in the center, and wrapped in crisp, garlicky bread. It’s not just food—it’s a warm, satisfying experience in every bite.
This recipe combines two crowd favorites: cheesy garlic bread and creamy chicken filling. Imagine a golden loaf overflowing with tender chicken smothered in seasoned cheese, wrapped in a blanket of buttery, toasted crust. The aroma alone—garlic sizzling in butter, herbs releasing their oils, cheese bubbling—will bring everyone to the kitchen before it’s even out of the oven.
Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or simply craving something deeply comforting, this stuffed garlic bread hits the spot. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast and earns requests for seconds every time.
Ingredient Guide
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal for its flavor and convenience. If cooking fresh, boneless thighs or breasts work great—just season them with a touch of garlic powder, salt, and pepper before cooking.
Butter + Garlic: Melted butter infused with fresh garlic and parsley is the backbone of the recipe. It seeps into the bread and enhances both the texture and taste with every bite.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese brings that crave-worthy stretch and melty richness. A little extra on top gives the bread that golden, gooey finish.
Cream Cheese: For a smooth, creamy base that holds the chicken together and adds richness. Soften it before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
Parmesan Cheese: Brings sharpness and a bit of salty bite. It also helps crisp the top when baked, balancing the soft filling below.
Herbs & Seasonings: Italian seasoning gives a subtle earthiness, while a little salt and pepper rounds everything out.
Sturdy Loaf: Choose a firm loaf like a French or Italian baguette. You want it crusty on the outside and soft inside to hold the filling without turning soggy.
Olive Oil (optional): Brushing the outside with olive oil before baking creates a crisper, golden crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Make the Chicken Mixture: In a mixing bowl, blend shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, a portion of the garlic butter, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until it forms a creamy, even mixture.
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Prepare the Garlic Butter: Melt the butter in a pan over low heat, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Remove from heat and mix in parsley. Save a few tablespoons for brushing the outside of the bread.
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Cut and Hollow the Loaf: Slice the loaf lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Gently remove some of the inside bread to make room for the filling.
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Fill the Bread: Spread the chicken filling evenly into both halves. Press it in so it holds together, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
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Close and Brush: Bring the loaf back together and press gently. Brush the outside with the reserved garlic butter, and a bit of olive oil if desired.
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Bake in Two Stages: Wrap the loaf in foil and place on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Unwrap and return to the oven for 8–10 minutes, until the top is golden and crisp.
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Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Use a serrated knife for cleaner cuts. Serve warm.
Avoid These Common Mistakes:
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Don’t skip softening the cream cheese—it ensures the filling blends smoothly.
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Avoid overfilling to keep the loaf from falling apart or leaking.
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Always bake in foil first to melt everything evenly before crisping.
Helpful Tips, Flavor Twists & Ingredient Swaps
Pro Tips:
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Add a spoonful of garlic butter into the filling for extra flavor.
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For better slicing, let the loaf sit for 5–10 minutes after baking.
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A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat if desired.
Flavor Variations:
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Spicy Kick: Stir in buffalo sauce and a bit of blue cheese for a spicy spin.
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BBQ Style: Replace garlic butter with BBQ sauce and use cheddar for a smoky twist.
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Veggie Packed: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers to the filling.
Easy Substitutions:
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No mozzarella? Try Monterey Jack or provolone.
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Dairy-free? Use plant-based cheese and vegan butter.
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Gluten-free? Substitute with a gluten-free loaf and check all other labels.
When to Serve & What to Pair It With
This dish is perfect for casual dinners, game days, or anytime you want to feed a group with minimal fuss. Slice it thick for meals or into smaller portions for sharing.
Pair it with a crisp salad, roasted veggies, or even a bowl of tomato soup. Dips like ranch, marinara, or creamy pesto take things up a notch. As for drinks, try a light beer, sparkling water with lemon, or a refreshing glass of white wine.
Nutrition Insights
This recipe is hearty and filling, offering a good amount of protein thanks to the chicken and cheese. It’s a higher-calorie dish, so pairing it with lighter sides helps balance the meal.
To make it a bit lighter, use part-skim cheese, low-fat cream cheese, and lean chicken breast. Adding vegetables to the filling is a simple way to increase fiber and reduce calorie density without giving up flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the loaf and refrigerate it wrapped in foil for up to a day. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Can it be frozen?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze unbaked. Bake from frozen at 350°F for about 30–35 minutes, removing the foil during the final 10 minutes.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Rotisserie chicken is easiest, but any cooked, seasoned, and shredded chicken will work well. Avoid overcooked or dry chicken.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Wrap slices in foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving, which softens the crust and can make it rubbery.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and even chickpeas can replace the chicken. Keep the same seasonings and cheese for a delicious meatless option.
Can I use premade garlic bread?
It’s not ideal, as it often contains heavy butter and salt. Stick with a fresh loaf and make your own garlic butter for the best result.
What dipping sauces go well with it?
Try marinara, ranch, garlic-herb mayo, or even spicy sriracha aioli for extra flavor.
A crusty loaf filled with tender chicken, melty cheese, and garlic butter. This stuffed bread is rich, comforting, and easy to serve at meals or parties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1½ cups shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 large French or Italian bread loaf
1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F.
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Melt butter in a small pan, add garlic, cook until fragrant. Stir in parsley.
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In a bowl, combine chicken, cream cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, a bit of garlic butter, and seasonings.
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Cut bread lengthwise and hollow out some of the center.
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Fill with the chicken mixture, top with remaining cheese.
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Press halves together, brush with garlic butter and optional olive oil.
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Wrap in foil, bake for 20 minutes.
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Unwrap and bake 8–10 more minutes until golden.
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Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.