If you have been searching for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then look no further. This Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and melty cheese all nestled between layers of soft, toasted bread. It’s a perfect dish for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. Every bite delivers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes that will quickly make this strata one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays an essential role, contributing to the dish’s delightful flavor, texture, and inviting appearance. These staples come together in harmony, making the preparation straightforward and the final dish absolutely delicious.
- French bread (7 cups, cut into 2 cm / 1 inch cubes): Provides a sturdy, absorbent base that soaks up all those rich egg and cheese flavors perfectly.
- Grated cheese (1 cup): Any melting cheese like tasty, cheddar, or mozzarella adds gooey, melty goodness throughout the bake.
- Frozen spinach (250 g / 8 oz, chopped): Adds vibrant color and wholesome nutrition, perfectly balanced when squeezed dry.
- Shredded or diced chicken (1 cup): Offers tender protein, making this strata a complete and satisfying meal.
- Parsley, finely chopped (optional): A fresh herb garnish that brightens every bite with a splash of green and subtle earthiness.
- Eggs (6): The binding agent that holds everything together while creating a fluffy, custardy texture.
- Milk (1 1/4 cups): Adds moisture and richness to the egg mixture, ensuring the bake is tender and luscious.
- Grated parmesan (1/4 cup): Lends a sharp, savory depth that complements the cheeses and chicken beautifully.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors so nothing feels flat or dull.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the richness of the dish.
How to Make Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Start by defrosting your frozen spinach in the microwave for about 4 minutes on high. Once thawed, be sure to squeeze out all the excess water. This step is crucial because moisture can make the strata soggy, whereas properly dried spinach helps keep the perfect texture.
Step 2: Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, grated parmesan, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is the magic behind the strata’s custardy center and pulls all the layers together beautifully.
Step 3: Layer the Bread
Spread half of your cubed French bread evenly across the base of a 25 cm by 25 cm (10″ x 10″) baking dish. This evenly forms the foundation of your strata.
Step 4: Add the Spinach and Chicken Layers
Next, evenly layer the defrosted spinach over the bread, then add the shredded or diced chicken on top. These layers pack in flavor and protein that make this bake truly hearty and satisfying.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Cheese
Scatter half of your grated cheese over the chicken and spinach. The cheese will melt into a creamy blanket that binds the layers together deliciously.
Step 6: Add Remaining Bread and Compress
Top with the rest of the bread cubes, then press down gently but firmly. Compressing the bread is important because it helps the egg mixture saturate the layers evenly during soaking and baking.
Step 7: Pour in the Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire dish, making sure all the bread is well covered. Then sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top and press down lightly again to ensure perfection.
Step 8: Let it Soak
Set your strata aside for at least 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up all those wonderful flavors. If you have time, 30 minutes is even better for a custard-rich texture.
Step 9: Prepare to Freeze (Optional)
If you want to enjoy this strata later, cover it tightly and freeze before baking. Just remember to defrost it completely before moving on to baking.
Step 10: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the dish with foil to prevent over-browning and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden color and the inside is set.
Step 11: Serve Fresh and Garnished
Serve your strata immediately, sprinkled with chopped parsley if you like for a fresh and inviting presentation.
How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice that adds a pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note, but feel free to get creative with chives, basil, or even a sprinkle of paprika for an extra hint of warmth.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light salads such as a crisp garden salad or a tangy tomato and cucumber mix. If you want something heartier, roasted vegetables or even a simple bowl of fresh fruit can round out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in ramekins for an elegant brunch option or slice into hearty squares perfect for meal prep lunches. You can even turn the strata into savory sandwiches by adding extra greens and a smear of mustard or aioli between slices of toasted bread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe keeps very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
Before baking, you can freeze your assembled strata covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap for up to 1 month. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as per the recipe instructions for best texture and even cooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to bring back that freshly baked texture. Alternatively, a microwave works well for quick reheating but may sacrifice some crispness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 4 cups chopped and sauté it briefly to wilt before squeezing out any moisture. This ensures your bake stays moist but not soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more flavor and texture.
What type of bread is best for this strata?
A sturdy bread like French, sourdough, or even a good quality ciabatta works wonderfully because it absorbs the egg mixture without falling apart.
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Yes, this strata is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake it fresh in the morning or the next mealtime.
How do I know when the strata is fully cooked?
The strata should be golden brown on top and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean, indicating the eggs are set and the bake is cooked through.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to give this Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that’s as comforting as it is impressive, with minimal effort required. Whether for a weekend brunch or a quick family dinner, this strata brings warmth, flavor, and a little bit of magic to your table. Once you make it, I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection too!
Print
Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes plus 15-30 minutes resting time
- Yield: 4 to 5 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty and comforting Chicken and Spinach Strata, perfect for breakfast or brunch. This savory bread bake combines layers of crusty French bread, melted cheese, chopped spinach, and shredded chicken soaked in an egg and milk mixture, baked until golden and fluffy. Easy to prepare ahead, freeze, and reheat for busy mornings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 7 cups French bread, cut into 2 cm (1 inch) cubes
- 1 cup grated cheese (any melting cheese such as tasty, cheddar, or mozzarella)
- 250 g (8 oz) frozen spinach (2 packets, chopped)
- 1 cup shredded or diced cooked chicken (or any other cooked protein, ham, or bacon)
Egg Mixture
- 6 eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Finely chopped parsley
Instructions
- Defrost Spinach: Defrost the frozen spinach in the microwave on high for 4 minutes, then squeeze out any excess water to prevent sogginess in the bake.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Layer Bread Base: Spread half of the cubed French bread evenly into the base of a 25 cm x 25 cm (10″ x 10″) baking dish.
- Add Fillings: Layer the spinach over the bread, then add the shredded chicken, and top with half of the grated cheese.
- Add Top Bread Layer: Spread the remaining bread cubes over the fillings and press down firmly to compress the bread, helping it absorb the egg mixture evenly.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over the bread layers, ensuring all pieces are well covered.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and press down gently again to help the bread soak up the egg mixture thoroughly.
- Rest: Allow the strata to sit for at least 15 minutes, preferably 30 minutes, so the bread can fully absorb the custard mixture.
- Freezing Option: If freezing, cover tightly and place in the freezer. Defrost completely before cooking for best results.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to get ready for baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow the strata to cook through without drying out.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve immediately, optionally garnished with finely chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out all excess water from the spinach to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
- You can substitute chicken with other cooked proteins like ham, bacon, or vegetarian alternatives.
- Allowing the strata to soak before baking enhances flavor and texture.
- Strata can be prepared ahead of time and frozen, making it convenient for future meals.
- Use a sturdy baking dish that can withstand the compression of the bread layers.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
