Looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that combines the comforting flavors of chicken and bread? Look no further than this Savory Chicken Bread Bake recipe. Whether you’re utilizing leftover chicken or starting from scratch, this dish offers a delightful blend of savory ingredients that come together to create a meal that’s as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Bread Layer:
- 4-5 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- For Topping:
- Additional 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preparing the Chicken Mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent.
- Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
- Stir in cooked chicken, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Assembling the Bread Layer:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, toss cubed bread with chicken broth and milk until well moistened. Let it soak.
- Stir beaten eggs and Parmesan cheese into the bread mixture until evenly coated.
- Layering the Bake:
- Spread half of the moistened bread mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly distribute the chicken and vegetable mixture over the bread layer.
- Cover the chicken layer with the remaining bread mixture, pressing down lightly to compact.
- Sprinkle the top with additional shredded cheese.
- Baking:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serving:
- Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Utilize day-old bread for better absorption of liquid and a cohesive texture.
- Customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or extra vegetables.
- This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
Conclusion:
With its comforting flavors and satisfying textures, this Savory Chicken Bread Bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this versatile dish offers a delicious way to enjoy the classic combination of chicken and bread.
- Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old Bread?
- Absolutely! While day-old bread is preferred for its ability to absorb liquid better, you can certainly use fresh bread if that’s what you have on hand. To compensate for the moisture difference, you may want to reduce the amount of chicken broth and milk slightly to avoid an overly soggy texture. Additionally, consider toasting the fresh bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes before incorporating them into the recipe to help them hold their shape better during baking.
- What Are Some Suitable Variations for the Chicken Mixture?
- The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize the chicken mixture according to your taste preferences and ingredient availability. For instance, you can swap out the mixed vegetables listed in the recipe with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different protein options, such as turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Don’t hesitate to play around with herbs and spices to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
- Yes, this Savory Chicken Bread Bake is an excellent candidate for advance preparation, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. You can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then proceed with baking as directed in the recipe. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure thorough heating throughout.
- How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
- If you find yourself with leftovers (which is highly likely given how delicious this dish is!), storing and reheating them properly will help maintain their flavor and texture. Allow any leftover Savory Chicken Bread Bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave until heated through or reheat larger portions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering it with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Remember to garnish with fresh parsley just before serving to add a touch of brightness.