If you’re craving a mouthwatering, bold-flavored dish that’s both comforting and packed with cheesy goodness, this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines tender shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce with creamy ranch, all wrapped in golden, flaky pizza dough stuffed with not one but two kinds of cheese. Every bite bursts with exciting layers of flavor that will have you reaching for seconds and sharing these delicious strombolis with everyone you know. Whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or a snack to impress, this recipe delivers that perfect blend of heat, cheese, and crunch you can’t resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe uses a handful of simple but essential ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Each component plays a vital role: from the tender chicken and spicy buffalo sauce to the melty cheeses and aromatic seasonings that elevate each bite.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful shortcut that adds moistness and protein.
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce: Provides that signature spicy kick—adjust the amount to your preferred heat level.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing): Adds creamy coolness that balances the buffalo spice perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and gives a stretchy, gooey texture inside the strombolis.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and depth of flavor to complement the mozzarella.
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional for garnish): Brightens the dish visually and adds fresh, mild onion flavor.
- 1 pound pizza dough: The golden, crispy outer shell that captures all the cheesy, spicy goodness inside.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for brushing the strombolis, it helps develop a beautiful golden crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the crust with a subtle savory aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional): Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the Italian-style dough perfectly.
- Extra buffalo sauce (optional): For drizzling at the end to amp up the buffalo flavor even more.
How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key to getting that perfect golden crust on your strombolis while making sure the filling inside is hot and melty. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Step 2: Mix the Buffalo Chicken Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly so the chicken is evenly coated in that spicy, creamy mixture. This blend is the heart of your strombolis, packing each bite with flavor and a wonderful gooey texture.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pizza Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. You want enough dough to generously enclose the filling but thin enough to cook quickly and get crispy. This step sets the stage for your strombolis’ perfect structure and golden finish.
Step 4: Assemble and Seal the Strombolis
Spread the buffalo chicken mixture down the center of your dough rectangle, leaving about an inch of space on each side. Carefully fold the sides over the filling and pinch the seams tightly to seal everything inside. Don’t forget to seal the ends too, making sure none of that cheesy, spicy goodness leaks out while baking.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Place your sealed strombolis seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil for a shiny, golden crust. Then sprinkle on garlic powder and dried oregano (if you’re using it) for an extra boost of savory flavor and aroma that makes these strombolis even more irresistible.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Melty
Bake the strombolis in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a golden brown color on top, and a firm dough when you press gently. The cheese inside should be melted and bubbly, signaling that your strombolis are fully cooked and ready to enjoy.
Step 7: Slice, Garnish, and Serve
Once the strombolis are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Then slice into 1-inch pieces to showcase the gooey, spicy filling inside. Drizzle extra buffalo sauce over the top if you like a saucier bite, and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping – pure magic!
How to Serve Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped green onions or a sprinkling of fresh herbs brings a lively contrast to the rich, cheesy filling and spicy buffalo heat. For an extra-special touch, drizzle a little more buffalo sauce or a creamy dressing right before serving to amp up those signature flavors.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, serve these strombolis alongside cooling sides like crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a simple green salad. Ranch or blue cheese dressing makes not only a flavorful dip for the strombolis but a delicious dressing for your veggies as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn your strombolis into party bites by slicing them thinner and arranging them on a platter like finger foods. You can even serve with mini dipping bowls of extra buffalo sauce and ranch so guests can customize each bite. They’re perfect for game day or casual gatherings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Proper storage keeps the strombolis moist while maintaining crispness on the outside, so they taste nearly as good the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze fully baked strombolis wrapped in foil or placed in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, bake frozen or refrigerated strombolis in a 375°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains some crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that golden crust — the oven is your best friend here!
FAQs
Can I use shredded turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded turkey works just as well and pairs beautifully with buffalo sauce in this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe, giving you a similar texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make these vegetarian?
You can swap the chicken for a hearty vegetable like roasted cauliflower or mushrooms mixed with buffalo sauce and cheese for a delicious vegetarian twist that still honors the spicy, cheesy vibe.
Can I prepare the strombolis ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! Assemble the strombolis, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge.
What’s the best way to roll out the dough if it sticks?
Lightly dust your surface and rolling pin with flour as needed. If the dough resists, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten, then try again—it will become much more manageable.
Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella and cheddar?
Feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, provolone, or pepper jack add wonderful flavors and melt well, keeping that delicious cheesy pull you want in this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Strombolis Recipe is a total game changer if you love that perfect mix of spicy buffalo, creamy ranch, and melty cheese wrapped in crisp, golden dough. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and sure to become a favorite at your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that irresistible flavor combo for yourself—happy cooking and even happier eating!
