Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread with Cheese
Imagine a world where the savory goodness of chicken alfredo collides with the irresistible pull-apart texture of monkey bread – the result is a culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Introducing the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread with Cheese, a dish that blends classic flavors into a truly magnificent creation.
This recipe has quickly become a fan-favorite, captivating the hearts (and stomachs) of home cooks and restaurant-goers alike. Its popularity stems from the perfect harmony of tender chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and melted cheese, all nestled within a pillowy-soft dough that begs to be torn apart and savored.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets this Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread apart is the irresistible contrast of textures. The fluffy, pull-apart dough provides a delightful base, while the rich, velvety alfredo sauce and juicy chicken pieces create a filling that’s simply out of this world. The addition of melted cheese takes this dish to new heights, adding a layer of gooey goodness that ties everything together beautifully.
What’s more, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or impressive weekend gatherings. With the option to make it ahead of time and freeze for later, you can enjoy the convenience of a homemade meal without the hassle of extensive preparation.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread with Cheese ❓
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup alfredo sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The beauty of this Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of shredded chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and melted cheeses creates the Italian-inspired flavor profile that has made monkey bread recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread with Cheese Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Step 3: Separate the refrigerated biscuit dough into quarters and place them in the prepared Bundt pan or baking dish. Arrange the dough pieces to cover the bottom of the pan.
• Step 4: Spoon the chicken alfredo mixture over the biscuit dough, making sure to evenly distribute it.
• Step 5: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the chicken alfredo filling.
• Step 6: Bake the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Step 7: Allow the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread to cool for 5-10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate or cutting board. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious pull-apart goodness!
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
• Total time: 50-55 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken alfredo dishes, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread saves you 10-15% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors in a unique and visually appealing presentation.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 850mg
These Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread provide approximately 50% of your daily protein requirements and 35% of your daily carbohydrate needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the refrigerated biscuit dough with low-carb or keto-friendly alternatives, such as almond flour or cauliflower-based dough.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use a dairy-free alfredo sauce and dairy-free shredded cheese to make this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
• Added protein: Increase the amount of shredded chicken in the filling to boost the protein content of the dish.
• Boost vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli into the chicken alfredo filling for added nutrition and flavor.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 15% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread with a light, tomato-based soup for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
• Complement the dish with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage, such as sparkling water with lemon.
• For a casual gathering, serve the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread as an appetizer or a main course, accompanied by garlic bread or breadsticks.
• Create an Italian-themed platter with the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread, along with marinated olives, roasted red peppers, and a selection of cured meats and cheeses.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Undercooking the dough: Make sure to bake the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread for the recommended time until the dough is golden brown and cooked through. Undercooked dough can result in a doughy, unappetizing texture.
• Overcooked chicken: Take care not to overcook the shredded chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Use freshly cooked or leftover chicken that is still moist and tender.
• Unevenly distributed filling: Ensure the chicken alfredo filling is evenly distributed throughout the dough to prevent some areas from being too dry or too soggy.
• Forgetting the butter topping: Don’t skip the final step of drizzling the melted butter mixture over the top of the bread. This adds an extra layer of flavor and helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the recipe up to the point of baking, then cover the unbaked Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Reheating: To reheat leftover Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Can I substitute the chicken for a different protein?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to use different protein sources. Cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded pork would all work well in place of the chicken. The key is to ensure the protein is cooked and seasoned before adding it to the alfredo filling.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
To make a dairy-free Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread, you can use a plant-based alfredo sauce, such as those made with cashews or almond milk, and dairy-free shredded cheese. Alternatively, you can make a creamy cashew-based sauce as the filling. These substitutions will allow you to enjoy this delicious recipe while accommodating dairy allergies or intolerances.
Why is my Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread tough or doughy?
If your Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread turns out tough or doughy, it’s likely due to overbaking or underbaking. Make sure to follow the recommended baking time and check the internal temperature of the dough to ensure it’s cooked through. Additionally, be careful not to overfill the Bundt pan, as the dough and filling need room to expand during baking.
Can I add any extra ingredients to the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, over the top of the bread before baking.
Conclusion
These Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a show-stopping main course or a delightful appetizer, they’re sure to impress with their mouthwatering combination of tender chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and melted cheese. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So gather your loved ones, preheat your oven, and get ready to dive into the irresistible pull-apart goodness of this extraordinary dish.
