Introduction to BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli
Craving something that’s cheesy, savory, and bursting with smoky flavor? The BBQ chicken cheese stromboli is your answer. This dish takes classic stromboli and gives it a bold twist with barbecue-sauced shredded chicken, melty mozzarella, and a soft, golden pizza dough crust. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for game nights, casual dinners, or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or cooking it fresh, this recipe delivers serious flavor with minimal effort.
History & Popularity of Stromboli
Stromboli originated in Italian-American kitchens in the mid-20th century, designed to combine the ease of pizza with the compact convenience of a rolled sandwich. Over time, creative variations like BBQ chicken stromboli emerged, combining smoky-sweet sauces with gooey cheese and herbs. With the rise of food blogs and viral recipes, this version has gained major popularity, becoming a staple at potlucks and family meals. It’s loved for its quick prep, customizability, and ability to serve a crowd with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients & Flavor Profile
This stromboli packs bold, sweet, and savory notes.
- Shredded chicken: Use cooked chicken breast or rotisserie for convenience
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and pairs well with BBQ sauce
- BBQ sauce: Adds sweetness, tang, and depth
- Pizza dough: Soft on the inside, crisp and golden on the outside
- Fresh cilantro: Adds a bright, fresh finish
Each bite offers a balance of creamy cheese, smoky sauce, and flaky crust—perfectly complemented by fresh herbs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly flour your surface.
- Roll out pizza dough into a rectangle.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Spread the mixture over the dough, leaving a border on all sides.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese and chopped cilantro on top.
- Roll the dough tightly, seam-side down, and seal the edges.
- Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
- Use parchment paper for easier rolling and transfer.
- Don’t overfill the dough to prevent leaking during baking.
- Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
- Use a pizza cutter for clean slices once cooled slightly.
- For crispier crust, brush the top with olive oil or egg wash before baking.
FAQs About BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli
Q1: Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes! Pre-made pizza dough or even crescent roll dough works well.
Q2: What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Go for thick, sweet, smoky sauces—like honey BBQ or Kansas City-style.
Q3: Can I freeze it?
Yes—freeze before or after baking. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Q4: Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Try sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
BBQ chicken cheese stromboli is a delicious fusion of classic comfort and bold flavor. Its cheesy, saucy center and crisp crust make it a standout at any meal. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and always a hit with guests. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for the week, this stromboli delivers on taste and convenience. Want more cheesy crowd-pleasers and dinner ideas? Visit our website for more flavorful recipes you’ll love.