Description
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bread Bake
Ingredients:
1 loaf French bread, cubed
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
3 tablespoons butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley.
2. Assemble the Bread Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, diced chicken, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the bread and toss to coat evenly.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Layer and Bake:
In a greased baking dish or skillet, layer the bread mixture evenly.
Pour the cream sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve:
Garnish with extra parsley and serve hot. Enjoy this gooey, cheesy goodness!
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Tips:
Add cooked bacon or veggies for extra flavor.
Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or any cheese of choice for variation.
#CheesyDelight #EasyDinner #BreadBake
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect bake. First, ensure your bread is slightly stale or toasted for better texture. Cube it into 1-inch pieces. For the chicken, use rotisserie chicken for ease or pan-sear and dice two breasts. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In your large mixing bowl, combine bread, chicken, and half the mozzarella. Drizzle the prepared garlic-parsley butter and toss thoroughly until every piece is coated. Transfer this mix to your baking dish, pressing down lightly. After making the Parmesan cream sauce, pour it evenly over the entire surface. Finally, top with the remaining mozzarella for a golden, bubbly crust.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp side to cut through the richness. Serve it with a simple arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. It also makes an excellent game-day appetizer or party dish when cut into smaller squares.
How-to Summary
Cube bread and dice cooked chicken. Make a garlic butter sauce with parsley. Toss bread, chicken, and half the cheese with the butter. Place in a greased dish. Make a simple Parmesan cream sauce and pour it over the top. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the entire bake (without baking) up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different type of bread? Absolutely. Sourdough, ciabatta, or a sturdy Italian loaf work well. Avoid very soft sandwich bread as it can become mushy.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or the entire dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream? For a slightly lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich and thick.
My bake is soggy. What happened? This is often due to using fresh, soft bread or not tossing the bread cubes thoroughly in the garlic butter, which creates a protective layer. Slightly stale or toasted bread is best.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fresh, soft bread which leads to a soggy texture.
- Overcooking the garlic in the butter, which makes it bitter.
- Not seasoning the cream sauce adequately. Taste it before pouring.
- Overcrowding the baking dish, which prevents even cooking and browning.
- Under-baking; ensure the top is golden and the center is hot and bubbly.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bread Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining familiar flavors into a simple, crowd-pleasing dish. Its versatility allows for endless customization with different proteins, cheeses, and add-ins. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve a perfectly textured, flavorful bake every time. It’s a guaranteed hit for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.