Contemporary Strata
A savory bread casserole layered with chicken, green pepper, and onion, baked with a creamy egg mixture—perfect for family gatherings or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 2 cups bread cubes in a baking dish.
- Add cooked chicken, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion over the bread.
- Top with another 2 cups bread cubes.
- Beat eggs; combine with cream of chicken soup, milk, mayonnaise, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 3 hours.
- Toss 1 cup bread cubes with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the buttered bread cubes on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50 to 60 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the egg mixture. You can substitute the cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Using day-old bread will yield the best texture. Also, if you have leftover bread, consider using it in other recipes like Spud Supreme.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Contemporary Strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs for added color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a comforting breakfast or brunch, consider serving it with fresh fruit or a dollop of sour cream. It’s perfect for gatherings or as part of a larger spread featuring other chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. This will help maintain the texture of the strata without making it soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Contemporary Strata contains roughly 783 calories, with 11g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1566mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the strata a day in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the strata the night before and let it chill in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy breakfast or brunch option. Just remember to add the buttered bread cubes right before baking for a crispy topping.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can make a homemade substitute using chicken broth, milk, and a bit of flour to thicken it. Alternatively, mushroom or vegetable soup can be used for a vegetarian version. Just ensure the flavor complements the other ingredients.
Can I freeze the stratas?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled strata before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. However, note that freezing may alter the texture slightly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).