★Ingredients
For the Dough:
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
1 tablespoon sugar
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
★Instructions
Preparing the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Filling:
- Cook the Chicken:
- If not already cooked, sauté the chicken in a skillet until fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cool and then shred or dice it.
- Cook the Peppers:
- In the same skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the bell peppers until they are soft. Add the garlic, oregano, and basil, and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cool slightly.
Assembling the Bread:
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
- Add the Filling:
- Evenly spread the chicken, sautéed peppers, and cheeses over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the Dough:
- Starting from one of the long edges, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams and ends to seal.
- Second Rise:
- Place the log on a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam side down. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Baking the Bread:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake:
- Brush the top of the bread with a little olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm.
Enjoy!