Chicken Spinach Strata: A Delicious & Easy Breakfast Recipe

Chicken Spinach Strata: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish! Imagine waking up to the aroma of savory chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach baked into a fluffy, golden-brown casserole. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of strata are debated, similar bread-based casseroles have been enjoyed for centuries across various cultures. Think of it as a savory bread pudding, a comforting and satisfying way to use up day-old bread and create something truly special. This particular version, the Chicken Spinach Strata, elevates the classic with the addition of lean protein and vibrant greens, making it a complete and nutritious meal.

What makes this dish so beloved? It’s the perfect combination of textures – the soft, custardy bread, the tender chicken, and the slightly wilted spinach create a symphony in your mouth. The cheesy goodness adds richness and depth, while the overall flavor profile is both comforting and sophisticated. But perhaps the biggest draw is its convenience. You can assemble it the night before, pop it in the fridge, and bake it fresh in the morning. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekend brunches!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 6 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or Italian)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Preparing the Chicken and Spinach Mixture

Okay, let’s get started! First, we need to create the flavorful base for our strata. This involves sautéing some aromatics and combining them with our cooked chicken and spinach. Trust me, this step is crucial for building that delicious savory flavor we’re after.

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be nice and tender, not browned. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
2. Combine with Chicken and Spinach: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic mixture with the shredded chicken and squeezed-dry spinach. Make sure the spinach is really dry; otherwise, the strata might become soggy. I usually wrap the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Mix everything together well, ensuring the chicken and spinach are evenly distributed.

Making the Custard

Now, for the heart of the strata – the custard! This creamy mixture binds everything together and gives the strata its signature texture. Don’t skip the nutmeg; it adds a subtle warmth that complements the other flavors beautifully.

1. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, eggs, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth. The Dijon mustard adds a nice tang, but you can substitute it with a pinch of dry mustard if you prefer.

Assembling the Strata

This is where the magic happens! Layering the bread, chicken mixture, and cheese, then soaking it all in the custard, creates the perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish. The key is to ensure the bread is evenly coated with the custard so it bakes up nicely.

1. Layer the Bread: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the dish. I like to use day-old bread because it soaks up the custard better without becoming mushy.
2. Add the Chicken and Spinach Mixture: Spread the chicken and spinach mixture evenly over the bread.
3. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Gruyere cheese and 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and spinach mixture.
4. Add the Remaining Bread: Top with the remaining cubed bread.
5. Pour the Custard: Pour the custard evenly over the bread, making sure to saturate all the bread cubes. You might need to gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard.
6. Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Gruyere cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top.

Refrigerating and Baking

The beauty of a strata is that it needs to sit in the fridge for at least a couple of hours, or even overnight! This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. Baking it low and slow ensures it cooks evenly without drying out.

1. Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all that delicious custard.
2. Preheat the Oven: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Bake: Remove the plastic wrap and bake the strata for 45-55 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
4. Let it Rest: Let the strata rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit more and makes it easier to slice.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your Chicken Spinach Strata? Here are a few ideas:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Fontina, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar would be delicious.
• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
• Meat Substitutions: Use cooked sausage, ham, or bacon instead of chicken.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the custard for a little heat.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this strata gluten-free.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add a lovely aroma and flavor. Sprinkle them on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Spinach Strata is perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner! Serve it with a side salad, fresh fruit, or a simple green salad. It’s also great for potlucks and gatherings because it can be made ahead of time and travels well.

Make-Ahead Instructions

As I mentioned before, this strata is ideal for making ahead. You can assemble it completely and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven.

Storage Instructions

Leftover strata can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Why This Recipe Works

This Chicken Spinach Strata recipe is a winner because it’s:

• Easy to make: The steps are straightforward and simple.
• Flavorful: The combination of chicken, spinach, cheese, and custard is incredibly delicious.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it to your liking with different cheeses, vegetables, or meats.
• Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for busy mornings or entertaining.
• Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves a good strata!

Troubleshooting

Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

• Strata is too dry: Make sure you’re using enough custard and that the bread is fully saturated. You can also add a little extra milk to the custard.
• Strata is soggy: Make sure you squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach. Also, use day-old bread, which absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
• Top is browning too quickly: Loosely cover the strata with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
• Strata is not cooking evenly: Make sure your oven is properly preheated and that the baking dish is placed in the center of the oven.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Protein: 30-40 grams per serving
• Fat: 20-30 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams per serving

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Chicken Spinach Strata as much as I do! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! Our Chicken Spinach Strata – a dish that’s not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to put together. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, a delightful brunch option, or even a potluck contribution that’s guaranteed to impress.

What makes this strata so special? It’s the harmonious blend of savory chicken, earthy spinach, creamy cheese, and that perfectly custardy bread base. Each bite is an explosion of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken, making it both economical and environmentally friendly.

But the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – Gruyere, Fontina, or even a sharp cheddar would work beautifully. You could also add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein substitute.

Serving Suggestions:

This Chicken Spinach Strata is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a classic choice. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of fruit salad or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. And don’t forget a crusty loaf of bread for soaking up all those delicious juices!

For brunch, serve the strata with a side of bacon or sausage, fresh fruit, and a mimosa or two. It’s the perfect way to start a lazy weekend morning. Leftovers (if there are any!) are also fantastic for lunch the next day. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Variations to Explore:

* Breakfast Strata: Add crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon and swap the spinach for sautéed onions and peppers.
* Mediterranean Strata: Use feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
* Spicy Strata: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
* Mushroom and Swiss Strata: Sauté sliced mushrooms and use Swiss cheese for a savory and earthy flavor.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. I’m confident that it will become a new favorite in your household. Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and having fun, so don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it.

Now, it’s your turn! I encourage you to head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this Chicken Spinach Strata a try. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the flavor? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this amazing Chicken Spinach Strata!