Chicken Cheese Strata is a hearty and delicious layered casserole that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken, savory cheese, and slices of bread soaked in a seasoned egg mixture, creating a comforting and filling meal that’s easy to prepare. As it bakes, the bread absorbs the egg mixture, puffing up beautifully and creating a golden, cheesy top. With a delightful blend of flavors and textures, Chicken Cheese Strata can be assembled the night before and baked the next morning, making it an excellent choice for entertaining or busy weekdays. Serve it warm with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices of bread, cut into cubes (day-old or slightly stale bread works best)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. Spread half of the bread cubes evenly over the bottom of the dish.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Top the bread with half of the shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle half of the chopped green onions over the cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, chicken, cheese, and green onions.
- Mix the Egg Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme (if using), and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Pour the Egg Mixture:
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish, making sure to evenly coat all the bread. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
- Refrigerate:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture for a fluffier strata.
- Preheat the Oven and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Uncover and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the Chicken Cheese Strata rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Chicken Cheese Strata is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family meal. Its cheesy, savory layers and satisfying texture make it a comforting favorite for any occasion.
