Description
There’s something magical about the smell of warm garlic bread baking in the oven. It’s a scent that fills the house and makes everyone’s mouth water in anticipation. Now imagine taking that classic, beloved dish and elevating it into something even more special—adding tender, seasoned chicken and a generous layer of melted, bubbly cheese. That’s what Cheesy Chicken Garlic Bread is all about: comfort food at its finest, with a hearty, cheesy twist that’s guaranteed to impress.
This dish is a perfect example of how a simple recipe can become a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting a family movie night, need an easy appetizer for a party, or want to jazz up your dinner table, this recipe delivers every time. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and packed with the kind of flavors that make you want to grab “just one more piece.”
For me, this recipe holds a special place as the centerpiece of cozy get-togethers. The golden bread, gooey cheese, and perfectly seasoned chicken create a harmony of flavors and textures that feel like an indulgence but are surprisingly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into how you can make this irresistible dish yourself!
Ingredients
- French bread: 1 large loaf, sliced in half lengthwise
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, softened
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, shredded
- Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Red chili flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Slice the French bread lengthwise into two halves and place them on the prepared baking sheet, cut side facing up.
Step 2: Whip Up the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the butter is smooth and evenly seasoned. Spread a generous layer of this mixture across the cut sides of the bread. Be thorough—every bite of bread should have that signature garlic flavor!
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Evenly distribute the shredded chicken over the buttered bread. To enhance the flavor, you can season the chicken with a little extra salt, pepper, or red chili flakes.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the chicken, ensuring an even layer. Follow this with a layer of cheddar cheese to add richness and color. Don’t be afraid to pile it high—the cheesier, the better!
Step 5: Bake Until Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra crispy, golden top, switch the oven to broil for the final 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of freshness. Slice into individual portions and serve warm.
Notes
- If you’re preparing this ahead, assemble the bread with garlic butter and chicken, then refrigerate. Add the cheese right before baking to keep it fresh.
- Leftovers? Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for the best results.