Oh, let me tell you about the cozy magic of Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining the savory crunch of chicken with the sweet, fluffy goodness of waffles. I remember the first time I made this for a brunch gathering; the aroma wafting through my kitchen was enough to make everyone gather around, eagerly anticipating that first bite. It’s such a unique twist on the classic chicken and waffles, baked to perfection so that every slice is bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Trust me, once you try this Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake, you’ll want it on repeat for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner! It’s a delightful way to start your day!
Ingredients for Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use any leftover chicken you have, or rotisserie chicken works like a charm!
- 4 cups frozen waffles, cut into quarters: I love the convenience of frozen waffles, but feel free to use homemade if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 4 large eggs: These will help bind everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups milk: Whole milk gives it a creamier texture, but any milk will do.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: This adds a lovely sweetness that perfectly balances the savory chicken.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor profile wonderfully.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: This is one of my favorite spices to give the dish a warm aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Just the right amount to season things up!
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I usually go for cheddar, but feel free to mix it up with your favorites!
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready to go, you’re one step closer to a breakfast bake that’ll impress everyone at the table!
How to Prepare Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness and get this Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake ready! It’s a simple process, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together.
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because you want everything to bake evenly. While that’s heating up, grab your favorite baking dish and give it a good greasing with some cooking spray or butter. This will ensure your bake comes out easily and doesn’t stick—nobody wants a messy dish, right?
Layering the Ingredients
Now, let’s get to layering! Start by spreading the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This savory layer is the heart of the dish. Next, take those quartered waffles and layer them on top of the chicken, overlapping slightly for maximum coverage. It’s like a cozy blanket of waffles over that glorious chicken!
Whisking the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Make sure you mix it all together thoroughly—this will help the flavors meld beautifully and create that custardy goodness. You want everything well combined so each slice is bursting with flavor!
Baking Instructions
Pour that luscious egg mixture over the layered chicken and waffles, ensuring it seeps down into the crevices. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and then get ready for some serious breakfast bliss!
Tips for Success with Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake
To make your Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake truly shine, here are some pro tips you’ll definitely want to keep in mind! First, using leftover rotisserie chicken not only saves time but adds fantastic flavor. If you want to amp up the health factor, throw in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for a veggie boost—makes it colorful and nutritious!
Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your sweetness preference; a little more can really elevate that flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for something a bit smoky. Lastly, let it cool slightly before digging in to allow the bake to set up nicely, making slicing easier. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your breakfast bake to the next level!
Variations on Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake
If you want to mix things up with your Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake, I’ve got some fun variations to try! For a southwestern twist, add some diced jalapeños and black beans for a zesty kick. Or, if you’re in the mood for something hearty, toss in some sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious veggie-packed version. You could even swap out the chicken for crispy bacon or sausage for a different protein punch!
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a bit of heat. And don’t forget about fruit! Chunks of fresh strawberries or blueberries can add a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings a new twist to this comforting dish—so get creative and have fun with it!
Nutritional Information for Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake
When it comes to enjoying your Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake, it’s good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just typical estimates per serving.
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
- Carbohydrates: 35g (Sugar: 8g)
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
This hearty breakfast bake not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a good balance of protein and carbs to kickstart your day. Enjoy every delicious bite while keeping these values in mind!
FAQ about Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake
Got questions about your Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake? I’ve got answers! First off, Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked? Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and shred it beforehand; it’ll save you time and ensure it’s tender in the bake.
How do I store leftovers? Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble it the night before and pop it in the fridge. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What can I substitute for the eggs? If you need an egg substitute, try using flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly.
Is this dish gluten-free? As long as you use gluten-free waffles, this Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake can easily be made gluten-free. Enjoy without worry!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and savory blend of chicken and waffles is a breakfast dream come true!
- Convenient and Quick: It’s a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it a hit at the breakfast table.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak ingredients or add your favorite extras for a personal touch.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before for an easy morning meal that saves you time!
Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake: 5 Reasons to Indulge
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious chicken and waffles breakfast bake that combines savory chicken with sweet waffles.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups frozen waffles, cut into quarters
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread shredded chicken evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Layer the quartered waffles on top of the chicken.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the chicken and waffles.
- Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust the amount of maple syrup for sweetness.
- You can add veggies like bell peppers for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake