Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread is a fun twist on two comfort food favorites rolled into one. Imagine tender, juicy pieces of chicken mixed with creamy Alfredo sauce and wrapped up in soft, pull-apart dough that’s golden and buttery. Every bite brings a little bit of cheesy, garlicky goodness that’s perfect for sharing, or just sneaking a few pieces when no one’s looking.
I love making this recipe when I want something that feels special but doesn’t take forever. It’s great to prepare ahead of time, so you can pop it in the oven while you relax or grab a quick snack. The best part is pulling apart those little dough balls soaked in Alfredo sauce—it’s like a little celebration every time you eat.
Serve this Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread alongside a simple green salad or some steamed veggies, and you’ve got a full meal that’s sure to make everyone smile. I’ve made it for family nights and casual get-togethers, and it always disappears fast. If you want an easy, cozy dish with a fun twist, this one’s a keeper!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Biscuit or Pizza Dough: Canned biscuit dough makes this recipe quick and easy, but homemade pizza dough works great for a more elastic texture. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pizza dough or biscuit dough.
Chicken: Cooked shredded chicken works best, whether from a rotisserie chicken or cooked at home. You can also use leftover chicken breast or thighs for convenience.
Cheese: Mozzarella provides that nice stretch and melt, while Parmesan adds sharpness. Feel free to mix in provolone or fontina for extra creaminess.
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought Alfredo sauce keeps it simple, but homemade sauce tastes fresher. If you want it lighter, use a cream cheese-based Alfredo or add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Butter and Seasonings: Butter adds richness. Garlic powder and Italian seasoning bring classic Italian flavor. Fresh garlic or Italian herbs can be used instead for a bolder taste.
How Can I Layer the Monkey Bread for the Best Flavor and Texture?
Layering is key to evenly spreading flavors and making sure the bread cooks well.
- Start with a few dough pieces coated in butter to form the base.
- Add a layer of shredded chicken for protein throughout.
- Spoon Alfredo sauce evenly to keep it creamy and moist.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan between layers to melt perfectly.
- Repeat layers until full, finishing with dough and cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Covering with foil at first traps steam to cook dough through, then uncover to brown the top beautifully.
This layering approach ensures every bite has chicken, cheesy sauce, and tender dough. Take your time layering gently to keep the bread fluffy inside and nicely browned outside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Bundt pan or deep round baking dish – perfect for shaping the monkey bread and easy to invert when done.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to toss dough pieces with butter and seasonings comfortably.
- Measuring spoons – help you get the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt just right.
- Spoon or small ladle – great for spreading Alfredo sauce evenly between layers.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot pan when taking it out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked sausage or pepperoni for a meatier, spicier option that pairs well with Alfredo sauce.
- Add sautéed spinach or broccoli pieces for a green veggie boost and extra texture.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheeses for a richer, creamier melt.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a pinch of nutmeg into the Alfredo sauce to add a subtle warm kick.
Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough or 1 batch of homemade pizza dough
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Seasonings and Extras:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing and assembling your monkey bread. Baking takes roughly 35 to 40 minutes. Allow an extra 5 minutes to cool before serving so it holds its shape when you flip it out of the pan.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a bundt pan or a deep round baking dish with cooking spray or butter so the monkey bread won’t stick.
2. Prepare the Dough Balls:
If using canned biscuits, cut each biscuit into quarters. If you made your own dough, cut it into similar bite-size pieces. Place the pieces in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add Flavor:
In a separate bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Pour this mixture over the dough pieces and toss gently so every piece is coated well.
4. Layer the Monkey Bread:
Start by placing a few buttered dough pieces into the bottom of your prepared pan. Add a layer of shredded chicken, then spoon Alfredo sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Repeat these layers, ending with dough topped with the cheese for a nice golden crust.
5. Bake:
Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to help the bread cook evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the monkey bread cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve while warm, enjoying the gooey, cheesy, and savory pull-apart bread!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat the chicken dry before shredding to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make Chicken Alfredo Monkey Bread Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the monkey bread and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake it a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave in short intervals, stirring or fluffing the bread between.
Can I Use a Different Cheese Instead of Mozzarella?
Yes! Feel free to substitute mozzarella with provolone, Monterey Jack, or a mild cheddar for a different twist. Mixing cheeses can also add depth to the flavor.