Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread is not your average meal—it’s a fun twist on classic comfort food that’s guaranteed to please a crowd. Imagine pulling a golden loaf from the oven, still steaming, with the rich aroma of buffalo sauce and garlic wafting through the air. It’s hard to resist! This recipe effortlessly combines the fluffy texture of homemade focaccia with that bold and spicy buffalo chicken flavor you love. Whether you’re gearing up for game day, hosting a family gathering, or simply satisfying a craving, this dish will keep everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re not an experienced cook. So, grab your apron, let’s get mixing, and soon enough you’ll have a beautiful Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread ready to enjoy!
Why This Recipe Works
Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread combines the delightful chew of homemade focaccia with the robust flavors of buffalo chicken. The yeast-leavened dough allows for a fluffy texture, while the buffalo sauce and cheesy layers introduce a savory depth that keeps the palate intrigued. Each bite gives you that comforting experience of comforting bread paired with a spicy kick—what’s not to love?
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread
This recipe is not just a feast for the senses; it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting game day, a family gathering, or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite. It’s a delightful blend of crispy, chewy, spicy, and creamy that everyone will adore. For those who appreciate unique flavors, this Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread is a game-changer.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup ranch dressing, plus more for drizzling
- ½ cup buffalo sauce, plus more for drizzling
- 4 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- Parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Creating the Dough
Combine Yeast and Water
Start your focaccia adventure by mixing the warm water with the active dry yeast and granulated sugar in a large bowl. It’s crucial to use warm water, as it helps activate the yeast. Let this mixture rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy—this indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to do its job!
Whisk Oil and Seasonings
In another small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and sea salt. This mix not only flavors the dough but adds a lovely aroma that permeates as it bakes.
Mix and Knead the Dough
Now it’s time to combine! Pour half of the oil mixture into the yeast mixture. Add the all-purpose flour and stir until everything’s mixed well. Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a tea towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is where the magic begins, as the yeast works its wonders.
Assembling the Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread
Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Once your dough has risen, preheat the oven to 450°F. In a medium bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, and shredded rotisserie chicken. This creamy, spicy mix is what will elevate each bite of your focaccia.
Coat the Skillet
Grab a 12-inch cast-iron skillet and pour the remaining oil mixture into it. Use a pastry brush to coat the bottom and sides evenly. This step is essential to ensure your focaccia doesn’t stick and forms a beautifully crispy crust.
Form the Dough Base
After the rising time, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the risen dough in half and spread one half directly into your prepared skillet, working it out to cover the edges. Make dimples across the surface of the dough with your fingers—the perfect opportunity for the toppings to settle.
Add Cheese and Chicken
Now for the fun part! Layer half of the shredded chicken mixture on the uncooked dough. Next, sprinkle on ½ cup each of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, allowing those melty layers to combine beautifully.
Cap with Remaining Dough
Roll out the other half of the dough into a 12-inch circle on a sheet of parchment paper. Carefully invert it over the cheese layer in the skillet. Peel back the parchment and, once again, use your fingers to make dimples. Now top with the rest of the chicken mixture.
Bake to Perfection
Bake your creation in the oven for about 12 minutes. After that time, sprinkle on the remaining cheese, then continue baking for another 14-16 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and everything is golden brown. The scent wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to wait!
Drizzle and Serve
When your focaccia is done, it’s time to add some finishing touches. Drizzle extra buffalo sauce and ranch dressing over the top before serving. If you’re feeling extra fancy, chop some parsley to sprinkle on top, adding a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread pairs beautifully with a crisp summer salad or some crunchy veggies. You can also serve it with a variety of dipping sauces for extra flavor—think ranch, blue cheese, or even hot sauce if you want that extra kick.
Tips for Success
- Ensure that your water is warm, but not too hot, so you accurately activate the yeast without killing it.
- Allow the dough ample time to rise; this step is crucial for achieving that perfect fluffiness you want.
- Don’t skimp on the toppings; generous layers of cheese and chicken definitely make a difference in taste.
Variations
If you’re looking for some fun twists, try adding jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for an extra spicier kick. You can also experiment with different cheeses—for instance, try pepper jack for added heat or even cream cheese for a richer flavor profile.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the oven to restore that delightful crispy texture.
Pairing Ideas
For a delightful meal, pair this masterpiece with a crisp lager or a zesty white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. The lighter flavors of the wine will balance the richness of the buffalo chicken well.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! You can bake or poach chicken breast and shred it to use in this recipe.
2. How do I ensure my dough rises properly?
Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area. This helps the yeast work its magic.
3. Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread?
Yes, indeed! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it makes an excellent meal prep option; simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
5. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight.
This Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread is the perfect showstopper for any occasion, bringing together hearty flavors that will leave a lasting impression. You’ll absolutely love sinking your teeth into the combination of fluffy bread, spicy chicken, and gooey cheese. Enjoy every moment, and get ready for a dish that transforms gatherings into unforgettable culinary experiences!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread
Buffalo Chicken Focaccia Bread is a delightful twist on comfort food, combining fluffy homemade bread with bold buffalo chicken flavor. Ideal for game day or family gatherings!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup ranch dressing, plus more for drizzling
- ½ cup buffalo sauce, plus more for drizzling
- 4 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- Parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in a bowl; let sit until frothy.
- Whisk oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and sea salt in another bowl.
- Combine the oil mixture with the yeast mixture and add flour, mixing well.
- Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Mix ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, and shredded chicken in a bowl.
- Coat a cast-iron skillet with remaining oil mixture.
- Punch down dough, divide in half, and spread one half in the skillet.
- Layer half of the chicken mixture and cheese on the dough.
- Cover with second half of the dough and remaining chicken mixture.
- Bake for 12 minutes, add remaining cheese, then bake for another 14-16 minutes.
- Drizzle with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing before serving.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure warm water is not too hot to avoid killing yeast.
Allow enough time for the dough to rise for optimal fluffiness.
Generously layer toppings for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
