Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that combines wholesome ingredients with a burst of flavor, you’re in for a treat with this Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe. Imagine layers of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, gooey melted cheese, and fluffy cubes of bread all soaked in a rich, savory egg mixture. It’s the perfect casserole-style meal that’s just as wonderful for a hearty breakfast as it is for a satisfying dinner. Trust me, once you try this strata, it’ll become one of your go-to recipes for feeding family or impressing guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet versatile ingredients are the backbone of the Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe, each bringing its own unique contribution to taste, texture, and color. From the crunchy bread cubes soaking up the custard to the fresh burst of spinach and the creamy melted cheese, every component matters.

• French bread (7 cups, cut into 2 cm cubes): Provides a sturdy base that soaks up the egg mixture and bakes into a golden crust.
• Grated cheese (1 cup, any melting cheese): Adds rich creaminess and a deliciously gooey texture when baked.
• Frozen spinach (250 g, chopped): Offers vibrant color and nutrients, perfectly balanced by the other flavors.
• Cooked chicken (1 cup, shredded or diced): Brings protein and a savory depth, making the bake hearty and satisfying.
• Parsley (finely chopped): Optional garnish that adds a pop of fresh herbal brightness.
• Eggs (6): The essential binder that holds everything together and forms a custardy texture.
• Milk (1 1/4 cups): Helps create a smooth, creamy egg mixture for soaking the bread.
• Grated parmesan (1/4 cup): Intensifies the cheesy flavor with its savory sharpness.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor throughout the bake.

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by defrosting the frozen spinach in the microwave for about 4 minutes on high. Once thawed, squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial to prevent your strata from becoming soggy and to keep the flavors concentrated and fresh.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, grated parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This custardy mixture is what will soak into the bread cubes, creating that irresistible strata texture.

Step 3: Layer the Base Bread

Take half of your cubed french bread and spread it evenly over the bottom of a 25cm × 25cm (10″ × 10″) baking dish. This layer sets the stage for the flavorful ingredients to come and helps create a sturdy foundation.

Step 4: Add Spinach, Chicken, and Cheese Layers

Next, evenly layer the defrosted spinach over the bread, then sprinkle the shredded chicken on top. Finish this layer with half of the grated cheese. This layering ensures each bite is packed with savory goodness and melty cheese.

Step 5: Add the Remaining Bread and Compress

Spread the remaining bread cubes on top of the cheese layer. Press down gently to compress the bread – this step encourages the egg mixture to soak more thoroughly into the layers, ensuring every bite is deliciously moist and tender.

Step 6: Pour the Egg Mixture

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the strata, making sure to cover all the bread pieces. This is the magic moment when all the ingredients start to meld together to form that custardy texture the dish is famous for.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Cheese and Compress Again

Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and press down gently once more. This helps the top layer soak up a bit of the egg mixture and guarantees a golden, cheesy crust after baking.

Step 8: Let it Rest

Set the strata aside at room temperature for at least 15 minutes, preferably 30. This resting time allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, which results in a perfectly tender, evenly cooked bake.

Step 9: Prepare for Freezing (Optional)

If you want to freeze the strata for a later day, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Just remember to defrost it completely in the refrigerator before baking to ensure even cooking.

Step 10: Preheat and Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the baking dish with foil to keep moisture locked in and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 11: Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the strata to cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired. This Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe is best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is melty and the flavors are at their peak.

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe

Garnishes

To brighten up this hearty bake, sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley or a little extra grated parmesan before serving. A dash of cracked black pepper on top just before serving elevates the flavors further and gives it a fresh, peppery finish.

Side Dishes

This strata is quite filling on its own, but pairs beautifully with a crisp, refreshing green salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit or a light citrus yogurt makes a lovely contrast to the savory tones.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions garnished with small sprigs of parsley in pretty ramekins for an elegant brunch or dinner party touch. You can also add colorful sautéed bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes in the layering for extra visual appeal and a flavor twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe stays fresh when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the baking dish tightly or transfer pieces to a sealed container.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled, unbaked strata by wrapping it tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Defrost completely overnight in the fridge before baking as usual to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that lovely crisp top and even texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you have fresh spinach, simply sauté it lightly to wilt and reduce moisture, then squeeze out any excess water before layering. This will keep your strata from becoming too watery.

What other proteins work well in this strata?

Besides chicken, you can use diced ham, cooked bacon, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure whatever protein you add is fully cooked before layering.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the cheese and milk with your favorite dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese. The texture might vary slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.

How long can I let the strata soak before baking?

Allowing the strata to soak for at least 15 to 30 minutes helps the bread absorb the egg mixture fully. You can soak for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator for an even better custard texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. Its make-ahead nature and easy storage make this strata perfect for meal prep. Prepare it the night before, bake when ready, and enjoy wholesome, comforting meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, the Chicken and Spinach Bread Bake (Strata) Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable to whatever you have on hand. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your recipe collection!

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