Buffalo Chicken Strombolis

Golden and delicious, Buffalo Chicken Strombolis are a fantastic choice for game day, casual dinners, or any occasion where comfort food is a hit. These strombolis are packed with tender buffalo chicken, fresh herbs, and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in crispy pizza dough. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on a cozy night in, their spicy kick and cheesy goodness make them a standout meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these strombolis in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of buffalo sauce, chicken, and cheese creates a mouthwatering blend that satisfies.
• Versatile: Perfect for game day gatherings or as a family dinner option; these strombolis suit any occasion.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Great for Leftovers: They reheat well and taste just as good the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Buffalo Chicken Strombolis, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife
• Brush for egg wash

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for even cooking and easy handling of the strombolis during baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for the perfect shape.

Ingredients

Golden strombolis stuffed with buffalo chicken, herbs, and melted cheese. Great for game day or dinner.

For the Dough

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 egg, beaten

For the Filling

• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

For the Cheese Blend

• 1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan or asiago cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Strombolis

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
– Cooked shredded chicken
– Buffalo sauce
– Chopped cilantro
– Chopped chives
– Chopped jalapeño

Mix until everything is well coated.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal balls. On a floured surface:
1. Roll each ball into an 8-inch circle or oval.
2. Spread ranch dressing on each piece of dough.
3. Evenly layer the buffalo chicken mixture on top.
4. Sprinkle with mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
5. Drizzle additional buffalo sauce if desired.
6. Tuck in two sides of the dough then roll it up like a cinnamon roll. Pinch to seal each stromboli securely.

Step 4: Add Toppings

In another bowl:
– Combine parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, and Italian seasoning.
Brush the tops of each stromboli with beaten egg then sprinkle with the parmesan mixture. Use a sharp knife to cut two small slits in each stromboli’s top.

Step 5: Bake

Place strombolis seam side down on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for:
– 10 minutes at 450° F
Then reduce heat to 375° F and bake an additional 20 to 30 minutes until golden brown on top.

Serve warm with extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for dipping! Enjoy your homemade Buffalo Chicken Strombolis!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Strombolis

Buffalo Chicken Strombolis are a delicious, spicy treat perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner, serving these strombolis with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – This classic cool sauce balances the heat of buffalo chicken.
• Blue Cheese Dressing – A tangy option that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Extra Buffalo Sauce – For those who crave an extra kick, serve additional buffalo sauce on the side.

Add Fresh Sides

• Celery Sticks – Crisp and refreshing, they add a nice crunch to your meal.
• Carrot Sticks – Sweet and crunchy, carrot sticks provide a healthy contrast.
• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the strombolis.

Create a Full Meal Experience

• Potato Wedges – Crispy wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side.
• Macaroni Salad – Creamy pasta salad complements the spiciness of the strombolis nicely.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Strombolis

To ensure your Buffalo Chicken Strombolis turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for an amazing dish.

• Bold seasoning is key – Make sure to season your chicken well with buffalo sauce and herbs for maximum flavor.
• Roll dough evenly – Aim for uniform thickness when rolling out the pizza dough to ensure even baking.
• Seal properly – Pinch the edges of each stromboli tightly to keep the filling from leaking out during baking.
• Don’t rush baking – Allowing them to bake until golden brown ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside melty.
• Experiment with fillings – Feel free to add different vegetables or cheeses according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Strombolis

Completing your meal with tasty side dishes enhances the overall experience of enjoying Buffalo Chicken Strombolis. Here are some great options:

1. French Fries – Crispy and golden, they are always a crowd-pleaser.
2. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw offers crunch and coolness that pairs well with spicy flavors.
3. Garlic Bread – Soft, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up sauces.
4. Sweet Potato Fries – Their natural sweetness provides a nice contrast to spicy chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and texture.
6. Vegetable Platter – An assortment of fresh veggies offers a light and healthy balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Buffalo Chicken Strombolis, it’s easy to stumble into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too much filling: Overstuffing your strombolis can lead to a messy bake. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor and easier handling.

• Not sealing properly: Failing to pinch the dough tightly can result in spills during baking. Make sure the seams are well sealed to keep all that delicious filling inside.

• Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash not only adds shine but also helps toppings stick. Don’t skip this step if you want a beautiful golden crust.

• Baking at the wrong temperature: Starting at 450° F ensures a good rise and browning. Avoid reducing the heat too early, as this can lead to soggy strombolis.

• Ignoring resting time: Letting the assembled strombolis rest before baking can help them hold their shape better. Give them a few minutes after rolling them up for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Buffalo Chicken Strombolis in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Strombolis

• Wrap individual strombolis tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Strombolis

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350° F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Buffalo Chicken Strombolis that may help you perfect your recipe.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for Buffalo Chicken Strombolis?

Yes, using store-bought pizza dough is perfectly fine and saves time. Just roll it out as you would with homemade dough.

What other fillings can I use for Buffalo Chicken Strombolis?

You can customize your strombolis by adding different meats, vegetables, or cheeses according to your taste preferences.

How do I make Buffalo Chicken Strombolis spicy?

To increase the spice level, add more buffalo sauce or include spicy ingredients like diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper in the filling.

Can I make these Buffalo Chicken Strombolis ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them before baking for convenience.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Strombolis are a delicious blend of flavors that are perfect for game day or any casual dinner. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and spices according to your personal taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!