# Ingredients:
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. You probably have most of these items in your kitchen already.
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small dice
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced fine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Bread Base
- 1 large French baguette or Italian bread (12 to 14 inches long)
- 2 tablespoons softened butter mixed with 1 minced garlic clove (for garlic butter)
For the Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided into 1 cup portions)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
# Instructions:
Most garlic bread recipes are simple side dishes, but this version transforms a humble baguette into a complete meal. The combination of protein-rich chicken, gooey cheese, and that unmistakable garlic aroma creates something that works equally well for a Tuesday night dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its flexibility. You can prep the components ahead, customize the toppings to suit your taste, and even scale it up or down depending on how many people you’re feeding. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely
The Chicken
Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, making it ideal for this recipe. Cut it into uniform pieces about half an inch in size so everything cooks at the same rate. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken from the grocery store works beautifully—just shred about 2 cups of meat and warm it through with the garlic.
The Garlic
Fresh garlic is non-negotiable here. Pre-minced garlic from a jar lacks the punch and sweetness that fresh cloves develop when they hit hot oil. Mince your garlic finely so it distributes evenly throughout the chicken mixture without leaving large, overpowering chunks.
The Bread
Your bread choice matters more than you might think. A traditional French baguette or Italian loaf with a sturdy crust holds up to the toppings without getting soggy. Avoid soft sandwich bread or anything too airy. The crust should be firm enough to support the weight of the chicken and cheese while staying crispy in the oven.
The Cheese
Mozzarella is the star because it melts into those gorgeous cheese pulls everyone loves. Whole milk mozzarella gives you better flavor and texture than the part-skim variety. If you want to elevate things, mix in some provolone for a sharper taste or add that Parmesan for a nutty, salty kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is hot enough to melt the cheese and crisp the bread edges without burning anything.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it’s warming, season your diced chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes to develop a nice golden crust, then stir and continue cooking for another 4 to 7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F if you want to check with a meat thermometer.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
This is where the magic happens. Push the cooked chicken to the edges of your pan and add the minced garlic to the center. Let it sizzle for about 30 to 60 seconds, stirring constantly. Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter, so keep a close eye on it. You want it fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Once it reaches that point, stir it into the chicken and remove the pan from heat.
Step 4: Create the Filling
While the mixture is still warm, stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and the Parmesan if you’re using it. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese, helping everything bind together into a cohesive filling that’s easier to spread on the bread.
Step 5: Prepare Your Bread
Slice your baguette in half lengthwise. If your loaf has a rounded top, you can slice a thin layer off the bottom so it sits flat on your baking sheet without rolling. Place both halves cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Build Your Garlic Bread
Mix your softened butter with the minced garlic clove until well combined. Spread this garlic butter evenly over both cut sides of the bread. This creates a flavorful barrier that also helps prevent the bread from getting soggy. Now spoon the chicken mixture over each half, spreading it to the edges but not piling it too high. Sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella over the top, making sure you get good coverage all the way to the edges.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to bubble enthusiastically and the edges of the bread to turn golden brown. If you want extra browning on top, switch your oven to broil for the last 30 to 60 seconds, but stay right there and watch it—the line between perfectly browned and burnt is thin.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Let the bread rest for 2 to 3 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This brief waiting period lets the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice without everything sliding off. Sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top, then use a sharp serrated knife to cut each half into individual portions. Serve while it’s still warm and the cheese is at its stretchiest.
