Go Back
–+ servings
Chicken Cheese Strata

Chicken Cheese Strata

The Crispy Chef
A cozy, savory bread pudding made with tender chicken, melted cheese, and custardy bread layers. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this make-ahead casserole is comforting, versatile, and easy to customize.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, brunch, Dinner
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 8 slices
Calories 410 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • plastic wrap or foil

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the dish)
  • 1 loaf (400-450 g) day-old sturdy bread, torn or cubed
  • 280 g cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
  • 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups (480 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 tsp (3 g) salt
  • 1/4 tsp (0.5 g) black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp (0.5 g) paprika
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) chopped onion or bell pepper (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
  • Layer half of the bread cubes in the dish. Top with half the chicken, half the cheddar, and optional onion/pepper. Repeat with remaining bread, chicken, and cheddar. Finish with Gruyère or Swiss cheese.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
  • Pour the custard evenly over the dish. Press bread down gently so it soaks up the liquid.
  • Cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Let strata sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
  • Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes until puffed, golden, and set in the center (160°F / 71°C internal temp).
  • Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use sturdy, day-old bread for the best texture. Assemble the night before and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Try variations with ham, sausage, mushrooms, or extra veggies. Always allow at least 5 minutes of resting time before slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 160mgSodium: 640mgPotassium: 310mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 280mgIron: 2.3mg
Keyword chicken cheese bake, chicken strata, make-ahead casserole, savory bread pudding
Tried this recipe?Mention @Thecrispycheff or tag #Thecrispychef!