Easy Chicken and Spinach Strata Recipe

Looking for a show-stopping dish that’s simple to make, versatile, and family-approved? Meet the Chicken and Spinach Strata—the ultimate savory bread bake perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a hearty dinner. Think creamy layers of bread, tender chicken, fresh spinach, and gooey cheese baked into golden perfection. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for gatherings or quick weeknight meals.

Whether you’re a busy parent or a brunch lover, this strata is sure to become one of your go-to recipes. Keep reading for everything you need to know to create this crowd-pleasing dish.

What Is a Strata?

A strata is a layered casserole typically made with bread, eggs, and a mix of savory ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or meats. Its versatility and simplicity make it a staple for home cooks. Stratas are particularly popular for breakfast or brunch, as they can be assembled the night before and popped into the oven the next morning.

The combination of custard-soaked bread and flavorful fillings results in a creamy, satisfying dish that’s easy to customize to your tastes. For this recipe, we’re spotlighting chicken and spinach as our star ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Spinach Strata

• Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble it the night before and simply bake it the next day. Perfect for busy schedules.
• Great Way to Use Leftovers: Have leftover chicken or slightly stale bread? This recipe puts them to good use.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of classic flavors—chicken, spinach, and cheese—is a winner for picky eaters and adults alike.
• Versatile and Customizable: Swap the chicken for turkey, add your favorite veggies, or try different cheeses to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a weekend brunch spread, this dish will steal the show.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe requires simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 cups bread (day-old or slightly stale bread works best, cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole milk works well for creaminess, but any milk will do)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Butter or nonstick spray, for greasing the baking dish

Optional Add-Ins:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Chopped red bell peppers
• Crumbled bacon
• Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Strata

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or a nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

• If your bread is fresh, toast it in the oven for about 10 minutes to dry it out. Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better.
• Chop the spinach, shred the cooked chicken, and grate your cheese.

2. Layer the Strata

Arrange half of the bread cubes in an even layer at the bottom of your greased baking dish. Add a layer of chicken, followed by spinach and shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining half of your ingredients, ending with a top layer of cheese.

3. Mix the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.

4. Pour the Custard

Slowly pour the custard mixture over the layers in your baking dish, ensuring the bread is evenly soaked. Use the back of a spoon to gently press the bread down if needed.

5. Chill (Optional)

For a deeper flavor and better texture, cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. If you don’t have time, you can bake it right away.

6. Bake to Perfection

Remove the strata from the fridge (if chilled) and allow it to come to room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

7. Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the strata from the oven and allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes. This resting time helps it firm up, making it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Strata

• Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in a creamier texture. If your bread isn’t stale, toast it in the oven for a few minutes.
• Don’t Skimp on the Custard: The eggs and milk mixture is what holds the strata together and gives it that creamy consistency.
• Customize It: This recipe is a blank canvas—add your favorite vegetables, meats, or seasonings to tailor it to your taste.

What to Serve with Chicken and Spinach Strata

Pair your strata with these side dishes for a complete meal:

• Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the strata.
• Fresh Fruit: A bowl of mixed berries or a tropical fruit salad adds a refreshing touch.
• Mimosas or Coffee: Perfect for a brunch setting.

Why It’s Great for Gatherings

Chicken and Spinach Strata is an ideal dish for entertaining. Here’s why:

• Serves a Crowd: The 9x13-inch dish can easily feed 6–8 people.
• Minimal Effort: It’s an impressive dish that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead: Perfect for stress-free hosting—just bake when needed.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Spinach Strata is proof that comfort food can be both easy and elegant. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and versatility, you’ll find yourself making this dish on repeat—whether it’s for a weekend brunch, a weeknight dinner, or a special family gathering.

Have your own twist on this recipe? Share your variations in the comments below! And if you’re ready to try out more easy, family-friendly recipes, subscribe to our newsletter for weekly inspiration.