Pin It A comforting, gooey pull-apart bread loaded with succulent leftover chicken, melty cheese, and savory herbs—perfect for sharing at parties or as a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
- Bread: 1 large round sourdough loaf (about 1 lb / 450 g)
- Filling: 2 cups (250 g) cooked chicken, shredded (leftovers work great), 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried), ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Topping: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Using a serrated knife, cut the bread loaf in a crosshatch pattern, slicing almost to the base but not all the way through, creating 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Be careful not to cut through the bottom.
- Step 3:
- In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, mozzarella, cheddar, mayonnaise, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Step 4:
- Gently pull apart the bread sections and stuff the chicken-cheese mixture evenly between all the cuts.
- Step 5:
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the stuffed bread, allowing it to seep into the crevices.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and chives (if using) over the top.
- Step 7:
- Place the loaf on the prepared baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 8 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 9:
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm. Pull apart pieces to enjoy.
Pin It 
Pin It This cheesy leftover chicken bake pull-apart bread makes every meal feel like a celebration.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of bread works best for this bake?
A large round sourdough loaf is ideal for its sturdy texture and tangy flavor, holding the filling well during baking.
- → Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella and cheddar?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack for different melt and flavor profiles.
- → How do I prepare the chicken filling?
Mix shredded cooked chicken with mozzarella, cheddar, mayonnaise, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika until well combined.
- → Is it possible to add more flavor to the filling?
Yes, consider adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth.
- → How should I slice the bread for stuffing?
Use a serrated knife to cut a crosshatch pattern about 1 inch apart, slicing nearly to the base without cutting through, creating cubes perfect for stuffing.
- → Can leftover turkey be used instead of chicken?
Absolutely, leftover turkey makes a great substitute and pairs well with the cheeses and herbs.