Ah, Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread—now there’s a recipe that brings back some amazing memories! I first stumbled upon this delectable dish during a family gathering, and I was immediately drawn in by the glorious smell wafting through the kitchen. My cousin whipped it up in no time, and I couldn’t believe how something so indulgent could be so effortless. Since then, it has become a staple in my house, especially on cozy nights in or when I need to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
What makes this dish so unique? Well, it blends the comfort of classic Alfredo chicken pasta with the fun and interactive nature of monkey bread. The fact that you can easily pull apart those heavenly pieces combines that nostalgic flavor profile with a delightful, shareable experience. Trust me; it’s a hit every time, and just one bite will have you wondering how you ever lived without it!
What’s in Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
Let’s dive into what makes this cheesy, savory creation come to life. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken: I recommend cooked, shredded chicken—perfect for using up leftovers or a rotisserie chicken from the store. It’s an easy, flavorful way to kick off the dish.
Alfredo Sauce: Whether you go for homemade or store-bought, this creamy sauce is key to achieving that dreamy flavor. I sometimes use a garlic-infused version for an extra kick.
Biscuits: You’ll need refrigerated biscuit dough (the kind that pops out of the tube). It makes the preparation a breeze and creates those lovely fluffy pieces when baked.
Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan adds that melty, cheesy goodness. Who doesn’t love gooey cheese in every bite?
Seasonings: A bit of garlic powder and Italian seasoning elevates everything beautifully. Feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Is Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspects of this delectable dish. While it’s undeniably delicious, it’s not what I’d call a health food!
Chicken: The protein from the chicken is beneficial, helping with muscle building and repair. Opt for skinless chicken breast if you want a leaner option.
Alfredo Sauce: This is where the dish can get a little heavy. It’s typically high in calories and fat, especially if using cream-based sauces. You can find lighter versions or make your own with milk and a bit of flour for thickening.
Biscuits: They tend to be made with refined flour, which means they are less nutritious and can spike your blood sugar. Whole grain or herb-infused biscuit options can be a healthier choice if you want to boost the fiber.
Overall, moderation is essential here! This dish is best enjoyed as a special treat or during a fun gathering with friends—trust me, you won’t hear any complaints!
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 6 people. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cans refrigerated biscuit dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
Alright, let’s get down to business! Here’s how to make this mouthwatering dish.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until well mixed and set aside.
3. Open the biscuit tubes and cut each biscuit into quarters. This is a fun part; don’t worry if they don’t end up perfectly uniform—that’s part of the charm!
4. In a large mixing bowl, toss the biscuit pieces in the chicken and Alfredo mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
5. Grease a bundt pan or a deep baking dish and pour in the chicken and biscuit mixture. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the biscuits are fully cooked.
7. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate so the cheesy goodness is on top!
8. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, slice, and enjoy!
Pull-Apart Perfection: Tips and Variations
Before you dive in, here are a few extra tips and variations to consider:
– **Add Veggies:** Feel free to toss in some cooked broccoli or spinach for added color and nutrients!
– **Spicy Kick:** If you love spice, you could mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes.
– **Cheese Overload:** Don’t be shy about adding more cheese if that’s your jam! A blend of cheddar can give an extra sharpness to the dish.
– **Cold Leftovers:** This dish is just as delicious cold! I sometimes sneak a piece from the fridge for a midnight snack.
Now that you have all the tools in hand, it’s your turn to whip up this delightful Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread! I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of pulling apart these cheesy pieces. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or any creative twists you add—happy cooking!
