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
Scale
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.