Hey there, fellow foodies! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the soft, chewy goodness of focaccia bread. Say hello to Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread! This dish is perfect for anyone who loves a flavorful twist on traditional focaccia. Let’s dive in and explore why you’ll love it, how to make it, and some great serving suggestions.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 43 minutes
- Serving Size: 8-10 slices
Why You’ll Love It
I adore this recipe for several reasons:
- Flavorful Combination: The spicy buffalo chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and soft focaccia.
- Easy to Make: The focaccia dough is simple to prepare, and the toppings are easy to assemble.
- Customizable: You can adjust the level of spiciness or add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Toppings:
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Combine yeast, water, and sugar in a large bowl. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Mix olive oil, garlic, salt, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl.
- Add half of the oil mixture to the yeast mixture and stir.
- Add flour and mix until combined.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a tea towel, and let it rise for about an hour.
- Prepare the Toppings:
- Mix ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, and shredded chicken in a medium bowl.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Grease a 12-inch cast-iron skillet with the remaining oil mixture.
- Add half of the dough to the skillet and spread it to the edges. Create dimples with your fingers.
- Top with half of the chicken mixture, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Place the other half of the dough on top and seal the edges.
- Bake for 28 minutes or until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer or Main Course: Perfect for parties or as a main dish with a side salad.
- Game Day Snack: The spicy kick is sure to be a hit during sports events.
- Customize with Herbs: Add some fresh rosemary or thyme for an Italian twist.
Tips for Customization
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your taste.
- Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses like parmesan or feta for a unique flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Add some dried oregano or basil for extra depth.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
- Q: Can I use store-bought focaccia dough?
- A: Yes, you can use store-bought focaccia dough to save time. Just thaw it according to the package instructions.
- Q: How do I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Focaccia?
- A: Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
- A: While traditional focaccia can be vegan, the buffalo chicken and cheese in this recipe are not. You could experiment with vegan alternatives like plant-based chicken strips and vegan cheese.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread is a delicious twist on traditional focaccia that’s perfect for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine. With its easy preparation and customizable toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness!
