Soft, golden bread filled with savory caramelized onions, smoky chicken and gooey cheese, baked with Italian herbs for a rustic and satisfying pull-apart loaf. This hearty bread is perfect as a standalone snack, a comforting appetizer, or a flavorful side for soups and salads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed Italian Herb Bread with Caramelized Onions and chicken combines the richness of slow-cooked onions, the saltiness of chicken, and the comforting stretch of melted cheese—all wrapped in a soft, herb-brushed loaf. It’s not only delicious but also visually impressive. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or slicing it up for a brunch table, this stuffed bread delivers flavor, texture, and a touch of rustic charm. It also holds up well for leftovers and makes an excellent make-ahead dish.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)

For the filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup diced chicken
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Black pepper to taste

Topping:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. While the dough rises, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 15–20 minutes until deeply caramelized and golden. Set aside to cool.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
7. Evenly spread the cooled caramelized onions across the dough, followed by the diced chicken and shredded mozzarella.
8. Sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper.
9. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal and place the loaf seam-side down on a lined baking sheet.
10. Brush the top of the loaf with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
11. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
12. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8 slices
Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hour rising time)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach.
• Cheese Options: Use provolone, fontina, or sharp cheddar for a twist on the flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy salami instead of chicken.
• Pull-Apart Style: Cut slits across the top before baking and stuff the filling into each section for a pull-apart loaf.
• Dough Shortcut: Use store-bought pizza dough to save time.

storage/reheating

Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until warm and crisped. You can also wrap individual slices in foil for reheating. Freezing is possible—wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.

What kind of chicken should I use?

Any cooked chicken works well, such as deli chicken, leftover baked chicken, or smoked chicken.

Can I make this recipe without cheese?

Yes, though the cheese adds texture and moisture. You may want to increase the onion or chicken if omitting it.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

Make sure the onions are fully caramelized and not watery, and avoid overloading with cheese.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser, more rustic loaf.

What’s the best way to serve this bread?

Serve it warm with a side salad, soup, or as a brunch centerpiece. It also pairs well with marinara or mustard sauce for dipping.

Is a stand mixer necessary?

No, you can knead the dough by hand. A stand mixer just makes the process faster and easier.

Can I add herbs to the dough itself?

Yes, dried basil, oregano, or rosemary can be added to the dough for extra flavor.

Can I use other meats?

Yes, cooked bacon, prosciutto, or pepperoni are great alternatives to chicken.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The loaf should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. An internal temperature of 190–200°F (88–93°C) confirms it’s done.

Conclusion

Stuffed Italian Herb Bread with Caramelized Onions and chicken is a savory, satisfying recipe that brings together bold flavors in a soft, golden loaf. Perfect for gatherings, brunches, or a comforting weekend bake, this bread is easy to customize and always a hit. With its gooey cheese, sweet onions, and herby crust, it’s a memorable dish you’ll want to make again and again.

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