Ah, Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread! Just saying the name makes me smile. This dish combines the comfort of cheesy Alfredo with the fun, pull-apart nature of monkey bread. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in! I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a family reunion years ago when my aunt surprised us with it. It’s hard to forget the moment when I pulled apart that fluffy, cheesy goodness and couldn’t help but go back for seconds (okay, maybe thirds)!
I love that this recipe is a unique twist on traditional monkey bread. It’s savory instead of sweet and is essentially a party in a pan. Deep down, I believe it’s the perfect dish for those lazy Sundays when you want to indulge but don’t want to fuss too much in the kitchen. Ready to make your own? Let’s dive in!
What’s in Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
Chicken: I recommend cooked, shredded chicken for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully – it’s flavorful, tender, and saves you time.
Biscuits: Store-bought refrigerated biscuits are a game changer! They make this recipe super quick and easy. I usually go for the flaky kind, which brings a lovely texture to the monkey bread.
Alfredo Sauce: You can either use store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience or whip up a homemade version if you’re feeling adventurous. Either way, it adds that creamy, dreamy element that’s hard to resist.
Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is my go-to here! It melts beautifully and adds to that gooey texture we all love.
Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle adds fantastic flavor! You can also use minced garlic for an extra punch.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the cheese and Alfredo.
Is Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread Good for You?
Now, let’s be real. Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread is a decadent treat. While it does contain protein from the chicken, it also brings in a lot of carbs and fat from the biscuits, cheese, and Alfredo sauce. Enjoying this dish in moderation is key.
Chicken: Great for building muscle and keeping you satiated, especially if you’re using lean meat.
Alfredo Sauce: Typically rich in calories and fats, but hey, you’re allowed to indulge occasionally! Just keep in mind that a lighter version or homemade sauce can be a healthier alternative.
Cheese: Full of calcium and protein, but like the sauce, it can be high in saturated fats. Choosing a reduced-fat cheese can cut down on the calories if that’s important to you.
So, while this monkey bread is not going to win any health awards, it’s a delightful indulgence. Just balance it out with a side salad, and you’re golden!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 2 cans (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
– 1 ½ cups Alfredo sauce
– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Optional: Olive oil or melted butter for drizzling
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, perfect for a small gathering!
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan with non-stick spray. You want it to come out easily!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, half of the mozzarella, garlic powder, and parsley. Mix until everything is well coated.
3. Open the cans of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. I often involve my kids in this step; it’s like pizza-making fun!
4. Add the quartered biscuit pieces into the bowl with the chicken mixture. Toss gently until the biscuits are evenly coated.
5. Pour half of the mixture into the greased bundt pan. Sprinkle on the remaining mozzarella cheese, then layer the rest of the chicken-biscuit mixture on top.
6. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle a bit of olive oil or melted butter over the top before baking.
7. Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will be incredible!
8. Let it cool for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a serving platter. Give it a gentle shake if it resists coming out.
9. Serve it warm and watch everyone dig in!
Get Creative with Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread!
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment:
– Add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra nutritional boost.
– Swap the cheese for something like cheddar or pepper jack if you’re in the mood for a different flavor.
– For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper or buffalo sauce to the mix.
– Honestly, you can’t go wrong with this recipe, as it’s all about personal preference!
As I finish writing this, I’m thinking about making it again for game night this week. It’s fun, fancy enough for friends, and most importantly, delicious! Don’t hesitate to sprinkle your own magic on this recipe and make it your own.
Try it out, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Share your experience and maybe your own secret ingredient. Happy cooking!
