Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stromboli

This BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping dinner that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese all wrapped in golden crispy dough creates a meal that's both comforting and impressive.

I first made this stromboli when hosting an impromptu game night with friends. Everyone was so impressed they thought I had ordered from a specialty Italian bakery. Now it's become our Friday night tradition when we want something special without the fuss of a complicated recipe.

• Pizza dough the foundation of our stromboli which can be store bought for convenience or homemade for extra flavor points
• Rotisserie chicken saves tremendous time and adds tender juicy meat with minimal effort
• Provolone cheese creates the perfect gooey stretch when melted but maintains its shape and structure
• Barbecue sauce adds tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the savory elements
• Red onion provides a subtle sweetness when sautéed that balances the bold barbecue flavor
• Italian seasoning elevates the flavor profile with herbs that complement the dough and filling
• Parmesan cheese adds a salty umami finish that enhances the golden crust

How To Make BBQ Chicken Cheese Stromboli

Prepare the oven

Heat your oven to 190°C or 375°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This temperature creates the perfect balance for cooking the dough through while keeping the filling moist.

Sauté the onions

Melt butter in a skillet over medium high heat. Add thinly sliced red onion and cook until softened and slightly caramelized about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The onions should be soft with slightly browned edges for optimal sweetness.

Prepare the filling

In a medium bowl combine the shredded rotisserie chicken with barbecue sauce ensuring each piece is well coated. The sauce should cling to the chicken but not be swimming in liquid. If your sauce is particularly thick add a tablespoon of water to achieve the right consistency.

Assemble the stromboli

Roll the pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 14 by 10 inches on your parchment paper. The dough should be about 1/4 inch thick. Arrange the provolone slices down the center leaving a 2 inch border on all sides. Top with the chicken mixture and sautéed onions keeping everything within the cheese border.

Roll and seal

Carefully lift one long side of the dough and fold it over the filling. Continue rolling until the filling is completely enclosed. Position the roll seam side down and tuck the ends under pressing firmly to seal. This prevents leakage during baking.

Add finishing touches

Brush the entire surface with beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese. Make several diagonal cuts about 1 inch deep across the top using a sharp knife. These cuts allow steam to escape and create an attractive presentation.

Bake to perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. The stromboli should have a deep golden brown color and sound hollow when tapped. If browning too quickly cover loosely with foil for the remaining bake time.

Rest and serve

Allow the stromboli to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the cheese to set slightly preventing it from oozing out completely when cut. Slice into 1 to 2 inch portions and serve with additional barbecue sauce for dipping.

The first time I served this to my family my teenage son who usually picks at his dinner had three slices. The combination of barbecue sauce with the melty cheese created such a perfect balance that even my pickiest eater was won over. Now whenever we have guests over this stromboli is requested by name.

Make Ahead Options

This stromboli is perfect for busy weeknights as several steps can be done in advance. Prepare the chicken mixture up to two days ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can even assemble the entire stromboli in the morning roll it up and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking for the most even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have on hand. Mozzarella can replace provolone for a milder flavor while pepper jack adds a spicy kick. Turkey chicken or even pulled pork works beautifully as the protein. For a vegetarian version try using sautéed mushrooms bell peppers and spinach in place of the chicken. The barbecue sauce can be swapped for marinara pesto or buffalo sauce depending on your flavor preference.

Serving Suggestions

This stromboli works beautifully as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread. For a complete dinner serve with a crisp green salad dressed simply with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. If serving for a party cut into smaller pieces and provide various dipping sauces like ranch honey mustard or additional barbecue sauce. For a family style meal pair with roasted vegetables or sweet potato fries for a crowd pleasing combination that satisfies all ages.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this stromboli?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe. You can find it in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, or you can even ask at your local pizzeria if they sell their dough.

→ What can I substitute for provolone cheese?

If provolone isn't available, mozzarella, monterey jack, or a mild cheddar would work well. For extra flavor, try using a smoked cheese variety or mixing multiple cheese types.

→ Can I prepare this stromboli ahead of time?

You can assemble the stromboli up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just brush with egg wash and add seasonings right before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What sides pair well with BBQ chicken stromboli?

A simple green salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries complement this stromboli perfectly. For a complete meal, serve with a small bowl of marinara or extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

→ How do I store and reheat leftover stromboli?

Store leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices, but the crust won't be as crisp.

→ Can I freeze this stromboli?

Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. To freeze unbaked stromboli, assemble without egg wash, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator, then add egg wash and bake. For baked stromboli, cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F until heated through.