Irresistible Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly shareable, look no further than this Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread. Combining tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and fluffy pull-apart bread, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. The layers of flavors come together in a fun and unexpected way that makes every bite a delight to savor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate comfort food: Creamy Alfredo and chicken wrapped in soft, buttery bread create the perfect cozy meal.
- Fun and shareable: Monkey bread’s pull-apart style encourages gathering around the table and enjoying together.
- Easy to customize: Add your favorite herbs, cheeses, or veggies to make it uniquely yours.
- Minimal prep time: Uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps that anyone can follow.
- Great for leftovers: Tastes delicious even a day or two later when reheated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread recipe plays a key role in the flavor profile and texture, from the creamy sauce to the perfectly soft dough. Using simple, accessible ingredients helps keep this recipe stress-free yet exceptionally tasty.
- Canned biscuit dough: Provides a fluffy, buttery base that pulls apart easily.
- Cooked chicken: Use shredded or diced chicken for tender bites packed with protein.
- Alfredo sauce: Creamy and cheesy, it binds the bread and chicken together deliciously.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to add gooey, stringy texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that balances the creaminess.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory punch without overpowering the dish.
- Italian seasoning: Brings herbal notes that complement the chicken and cheese perfectly.
- Melted butter: Coats each piece of biscuit for a golden, flavorful crust.
Variations for Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread
Don’t hesitate to tweak this recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs—there’s so much room for creativity! Whether you want it spicier, vegetarian, or loaded with veggies, this dish invites customization.
- Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the dough pieces before baking.
- Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes for a hearty meatless option.
- Different cheeses: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
- Whole wheat dough: Use whole wheat biscuit dough or homemade dough for a fiber boost.
- Herb variations: Experiment with fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary to elevate the aroma.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread
Step 1: Prepare the chicken and dough pieces
Start by shredding cooked chicken and cutting canned biscuit dough into bite-sized pieces. Toss the dough pieces in melted butter mixed with Italian seasoning and garlic powder to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Assemble the layers
In a greased bundt or tube pan, begin layering half of the coated biscuit pieces. Sprinkle half of the chicken evenly over the dough, then spread half of the Alfredo sauce and cheeses. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with cheese on top for a gooey, golden finish.
Step 3: Bake until golden and bubbly
Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is puffed, golden brown, and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
Step 4: Cool and serve
Allow the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread to cool for 5-10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate. This short rest helps the layers set slightly for easier pulling apart without losing that melty, saucy charm.
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread
- Use warm, fresh cooked chicken: It blends better with the sauce and keeps the bread moist.
- Don’t skip the butter coating: It adds richness and helps the dough cook to a perfect golden crust.
- Layer strategically: Balance chicken, sauce, and cheese in each layer to avoid dry or overly saucy bites.
- Let it rest: Cooling the bread slightly before serving keeps it from falling apart when pulled.
- Choose a quality Alfredo sauce: Your sauce makes a big difference—homemade or store-bought both work great.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top brightens the dish visually and adds a hint of freshness to balance the richness. Grated extra Parmesan works well too for cheese lovers.
Side Dishes
Pair with a crisp garden salad or steamed green veggies like broccoli or asparagus to add freshness and balance the indulgent flavors. A simple Caesar salad is a classic sidekick that complements the creamy chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish directly from the bundt pan to keep its pull-apart appeal. For parties, slice into wedges and offer toothpicks so guests can snack on bite-sized pieces effortlessly. A drizzle of extra Alfredo sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes on top can elevate the presentation and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any uneaten Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It maintains its flavor and texture well when stored properly.
Freezing
You can freeze the fully assembled but unbaked monkey bread in the pan, wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the bread regains some of its crispness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dough instead of biscuit dough?
Absolutely! Homemade dough can add a personal touch and a different texture, but make sure it’s slightly enriched and soft for the best Monkey Bread result.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can assemble the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread in advance and refrigerate it until baking time, making it convenient for meal prep and busy weeknights.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting dairy-free Alfredo sauce, vegan cheeses, and plant-based butter, you can tailor this recipe to fit a dairy-free lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Alfredo sauce?
You can make a quick homemade Alfredo sauce using butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan or substitute with a creamy béchamel sauce seasoned to taste.
How do I ensure the monkey bread isn’t too soggy?
Be mindful of the amount of sauce used—too much can weigh down the dough. Also, letting the bread rest slightly before serving helps the layers hold together nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread is a delightful blend of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy bread that’s perfect for cozy meals or fun gatherings. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it becoming a favorite recipe to share and enjoy again and again!
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Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Contains Gluten and Dairy
Description
Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread is a creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly shareable dish featuring tender cooked chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and fluffy pull-apart biscuit dough. This comforting recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings where everyone can enjoy layers of gooey cheese, savory chicken, and buttery bread baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Bread Base
- Canned biscuit dough (1 can, about 16 oz)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
Cheeses and Seasonings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken and dough pieces: Shred or dice the cooked chicken. Cut the canned biscuit dough into bite-sized pieces. Toss these dough pieces in melted butter mixed with Italian seasoning and garlic powder to evenly coat and flavor each piece.
- Assemble the layers: Grease a bundt or tube pan. Begin by layering half of the coated biscuit pieces in the pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the chicken over the dough, then spread half of the Alfredo sauce. Top with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the sequence with the remaining biscuit pieces, chicken, sauce, and cheeses, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake until golden and bubbly: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled monkey bread for 30–35 minutes or until the bread is puffed, golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbling. Watch closely near the end to avoid over-browning.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the monkey bread cool for 5–10 minutes. Invert the bundt pan onto a serving plate. This resting allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to pull apart while retaining the melty, saucy texture.
Notes
- Use warm, freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor and moist texture.
- Coating biscuit dough pieces with melted butter ensures a golden, rich crust.
- Balance each layer with chicken, sauce, and cheese to avoid dry or overly saucy bites.
- Allow the bread to rest after baking to prevent falling apart when pulled.
- Use high-quality Alfredo sauce, homemade or store-bought, to enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread, creamy chicken recipe, pull-apart bread, cheesy chicken appetizer, easy family dinner