A warm, hearty, and cheesy delight, Cheesy Chicken Bread Bake is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, fresh vegetables, and plenty of gooey cheese baked over bread. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or quick gatherings, this dish is filling, flavorful, and simple to prepare. The golden crust and cheesy layers make it irresistible, and the recipe can easily be adapted to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 cups bread cubes (preferably slightly stale or toasted)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp paprika or chili flakes
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or coriander, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a medium-sized baking dish. Toast the bread cubes lightly if they are soft.
- In a pan, melt butter, add onion, garlic, and sauté until translucent. Stir in bell peppers and corn, cooking for 2–3 minutes. Add shredded chicken. Sprinkle flour, mix well, then pour in milk and cream slowly, stirring continuously to form a smooth sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Place bread cubes into the greased dish. Pour the chicken mixture over them, making sure the bread soaks the creamy sauce. Top generously with mozzarella and cheddar. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Servings
This recipe serves 4–5 people.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 390
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Calcium: 210mg
Notes
Use leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken for convenience. Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the sauce without turning soggy. You can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to make it more nutritious.
Tips
- Always shred chicken instead of cubing—it blends better with the bread and sauce.
- Use a mix of cheeses for richer flavor—try parmesan for a sharp taste.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes after baking.
- To make it healthier, replace cream with low-fat yogurt or evaporated milk.
Health Benefits
Cheesy Chicken Bread Bake is a balanced meal providing lean protein from chicken that supports muscle repair and immunity. The combination of bread and vegetables offers dietary fiber for digestion and sustained energy. Cheese contributes calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, while also providing vitamin B12 and healthy fats. Adding colorful vegetables increases antioxidant intake, protecting the body against free radicals.
Q & A
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Bread Bake?
A: Yes, prepare the dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to one month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes.
Q: Which bread works best?
A: White bread, French bread, or whole wheat bread cubes work well. Avoid very soft sandwich bread as it gets mushy.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Absolutely! Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy twist.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: It pairs well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.