Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Stromboli is a crowd-pleasing, comfort food classic that's perfect for any family dinner or get-together. Originating from the concept of Italian stromboli, which is essentially a type of turnover filled with various cheeses and cured meats, this dish incorporates succulent chicken and crispy bacon to elevate the flavor. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit the taste of kids and adults alike, making it a great option for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying.

This stromboli pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables to round out the meal. For a more indulgent dinner, you could serve it with a side of garlic butter dipping sauce or a light tomato soup to complement the rich, cheesy filling. Don't forget a refreshing lemonade or iced tea for a complete family meal experience.

Servings: 4-6

1 pound pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup baby spinach, optional
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten for egg wash

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

3. Brush the surface of the dough with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over it.

4. Layer the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and spinach (if using) over half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

5. Sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses over the chicken and bacon.

6. Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Make small slits on top of the stromboli for steam to escape.

7. Transfer the stromboli to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

8. Brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

10. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

If you have picky eaters or dietary restrictions, this recipe is quite adaptable. For a lighter version, substitute the bacon with turkey bacon and use a low-fat cheese blend. Vegetarians in the family can replace the meats with a mix of bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a delightful veggie stromboli. Additionally, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

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