There’s a certain joy that comes with pulling apart a warm, gooey piece of bread right out of the oven, and my Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread brings that experience to life like nothing else. Imagine tender, shredded chicken enveloped in a creamy Alfredo sauce, nestled within fluffy bites of biscuit dough. This dish is a fun twist on two comfort food classics, making it a delightful centerpiece for family dinners or game day gatherings.
As the golden-brown crust forms, the inviting aroma fills your kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere that beckons everyone to gather around the table. With every pull, you’ll discover layers of melty mozzarella and savory Parmesan, making it not just a meal, but an interactive dining experience. Best of all, it’s so easy to put together, you can effortlessly whip it up on a busy weeknight or for a special occasion. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why is Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread so special?
Comforting and Fun: This recipe combines two beloved dishes, offering a unique way to enjoy comforting flavors that everyone loves.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Pull-Apart Perfection: Each bite is a delightful mix of fluffy dough and creamy cheese, making it an interactive meal that invites sharing.
Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment by swapping ingredients to tailor the recipe to your family’s taste, such as using different proteins or sauces.
Crowd-Pleasing Aroma: The heavenly smell of baking Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread fills your kitchen, drawing everyone in for a delicious treat!
Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture
• Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded) – Substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience and time savings.
• Alfredo Sauce (1 cup) – Use store-bought for quick prep or homemade for an extra touch.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor profile; fresh minced garlic can add an aromatic punch.
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – Infuses herby notes; feel free to swap with fresh basil or oregano.
• Salt and Pepper – Use to taste, elevating the overall flavor of your Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread.
For the Dough
• Refrigerated Biscuit Dough (3 cups) – Pillsbury Grands are recommended for an airy texture that pulls apart beautifully.
For the Cheese
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup) – A melty texture is key; try provolone or cheddar for a tasty twist.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup) – Freshly grated offers a richer flavor that enhances the dish.
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped) – Provides a fresh finish; optional if you’re short on time or ingredients.
This Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread is not only a delightful dish to share with loved ones but also a fantastic way to bring fun and flavor to your dining experience!
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring even baking for your monkey bread.
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Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until it’s well blended and creamy.
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Cut Biscuit Dough: Carefully slice each biscuit into quarters. This will help the dough absorb those delicious flavors as it bakes!
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Combine Ingredients: Gently toss the biscuit pieces with the chicken mixture until every piece is evenly coated. You want flavor in every bite!
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Add Cheese: Fold in shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to create a cheesy filling that will be delightful once baked.
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Assemble in Pan: Grease a bundt pan well, then layer the chicken and biscuit mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy goodness!
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Bake: Place the bundt pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread to cool for about 5 minutes. Invert it onto a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley before enjoying!
Optional: Serve with a side of garden salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread Variations
Get ready to make this delicious dish your own with simple twists and ingredient swaps!
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Sausage Swap: Replace shredded chicken with cooked Italian sausage for a spicy, robust flavor. Just crumble the sausage and mix it into the Alfredo sauce for a hearty alternative.
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Veggie Delight: Add fresh spinach or broccoli to the chicken mixture for a boost of color and nutrition. This variation not only adds texture but also vibrant flavor.
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Pesto Twist: Swap the Alfredo sauce for basil pesto for a fresh, herby taste that adds a pleasant twist. This substitution will brighten the overall flavor profile wondrously.
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Cheese Variations: Try mixing in smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for a smoky kick. The melting texture combined with spices will offer a delightful surprise in every pull-apart bite.
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Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat refrigerated biscuit dough for a healthier option that’s still easy to handle. This variation adds a nutty flavor and additional fiber to your dish.
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Creamy Ranch: Substitute the Alfredo sauce with creamy ranch dressing for a zesty flavor that brings a unique touch to this comfort food favorite. It’s a fun twist that your family will love!
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick. This variation adds just the right amount of heat that balances the creaminess beautifully.
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Reduced Fat: Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese or low-fat cheeses to create a lighter version of the dish without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy all the goodness while being a bit kinder to your waistline!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread bites are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can easily prepare the chicken mixture (shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cut the biscuit dough into quarters and keep it in a sealed container to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the biscuit pieces with the chicken mixture, layer it in the bundt pan, and bake as instructed. This makes for a hassle-free meal that retains its creamy, cheesy goodness, ensuring that you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread
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Shred Chicken Well: Ensure that your chicken is finely shredded for even mixing and flavor distribution throughout the dish.
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Watch Baking Time: Avoid overbaking; keeping an eye on the time will help maintain a moist texture. Check with a toothpick for doneness.
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Pre-Make for Convenience: If you’re short on time, prepare the chicken and biscuit mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Bake when you’re ready to serve.
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Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses in your Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor twist.
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Grease Properly: Adequately grease your bundt pan to prevent any sticking and ensure an easy release for your delicious creation.
What to Serve with Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
Create an unforgettable dining experience by complementing this interactive dish with diverse flavors and textures.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A bright mix of greens and veggies adds a crisp contrast to the creamy richness, making each bite refreshing.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Chewy and buttery, these breadsticks offer a delightful side that echoes the comforting vibes of the main dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli brings a vibrant pop of color and a healthy crunch, balancing the richness of the monkey bread.
- Italian Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta provides a tangy flavor profile that beautifully contrasts the warm, cheesy bread.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and seasoning, these tender stalks add a gourmet touch while enhancing your meal’s nutritional value.
- Red Wine: A light, fruity red wine pairs wonderfully with the creamy flavors, enhancing your overall dining experience.
- Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, offering a luxurious finish that lingers in the mind.
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade brightens the palate and complements the savory richness of the monkey bread.
Storage Tips for Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy later, reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, preserving its gooey texture.
Make-Ahead: You can assemble the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread a day in advance; just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake, making it perfect for gatherings!
Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
Absolutely, using cooked chicken is a must! I recommend shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, as it’s already seasoned and saves you prep time. If you’re grilling or baking chicken breasts at home, aim for juicy, tender pieces that can be easily shredded.
How long can I store leftovers of Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
You can store any leftover Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing to keep it fresh and moist!
Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the baked Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
How can I troubleshoot if my Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread is too dry?
If your Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking. Always check for doneness a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick. If it does end up dry, I recommend adding a drizzle of warm Alfredo sauce over the top before serving to restore some moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the chicken for cooked Italian sausage for a twist or opt for roasted veggies like broccoli or spinach for a lighter version. For those with dairy allergies, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and make a homemade dairy-free Alfredo sauce. Always check labels if serving pets, as some ingredients may not be safe for them.
Can I prepare the Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up until the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. The next day, simply pop it in the oven as directed. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread: A Family Favorite to Indulge In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully slice each biscuit into quarters.
- Gently toss the biscuit pieces with the chicken mixture until every piece is evenly coated.
- Fold in shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Grease a bundt pan well, then layer the chicken and biscuit mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top.
- Place the bundt pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool for about 5 minutes. Invert onto a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley.