Save 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.
This recipe reminds me of cozy family gatherings where everyone eagerly pulls apart the bread to get the cheesy chicken filling.
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.
Save Our family loves how this bread brings everyone to the table, making sharing and conversation effortless and fun.
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread), Milk (cheese, butter), Egg (mayonnaise—check label). May contain Soy (depending on mayonnaise or bread brand). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 410. Total Fat 23 g. Carbohydrates 31 g. Protein 21 g.
Additional Tips
Serve with a simple green salad or marinara sauce for dipping to add freshness and zest.
Save 
This cheesy chicken pull-apart bread is the perfect cozy meal to enjoy any day or special occasion.
Kitchen Help
- → Can I substitute turkey for chicken in this dish?
Yes, cooked turkey works well as a substitute and maintains the same delicious flavor and texture.
- → What type of bread is best for this pull-apart preparation?
A large round sourdough loaf is ideal as it holds the filling well and crisps nicely during baking.
- → How can I add a spicy kick to the filling?
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken and cheese mixture will introduce a subtle heat without overpowering.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the pull-apart bread in advance and refrigerate it before baking, then finish cooking when ready to serve.
- → What sides pair well with this flavorful pull-apart loaf?
Simple green salads or marinara sauce for dipping complement the rich cheesy and herb flavors nicely.