Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bread Bake Recipe

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bread Bake

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Bread

Take your slices of bread and cut them into cubes or tear them into bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference. Arrange the bread pieces in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

If you’d like the bread to have a bit of a toasted texture, you can brush the bread with olive oil or melted butter and toast it in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until it’s golden and slightly crispy. Alternatively, you can leave the bread as-is if you prefer a softer base.

3. Prepare the Chicken

Shred or chop your cooked chicken. If you’re using leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even chicken breasts, make sure the chicken is bite-sized and evenly distributed across the bread layer.

4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic powder (or minced garlic) and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.

Once the sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the bread and chicken in the baking dish. Use a spoon to make sure the sauce is distributed evenly.

5. Add the Cheese

Top the dish with both the mozzarella and parmesan cheese, spreading them evenly across the top. The mozzarella will melt beautifully, while the parmesan adds a rich, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.

6. Bake the Dish

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden and slightly crispy. The dish should be heated through and have a deliciously golden crust on top.

7. Finish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. This will help everything set and make it easier to serve.

Garnish with some fresh parsley or extra parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot. This dish is perfect on its own or can be paired with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bread Bake

• Use Sturdy Bread: Choose a bread that holds up well when baked, like sourdough, baguette, or French bread. Avoid using overly soft bread, as it may become too mushy.
• Add Veggies: If you want to make the dish a bit more hearty, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. These vegetables will add both flavor and texture to the dish.
• Spice it Up: Add a bit of hot sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick. You can also toss in a bit of paprika for extra smokiness.
• Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great recipe for using up leftover chicken from a roast or a previous meal. Just shred or chop the meat and you’ve got a head start on this delicious bake.
• Make It in Advance: If you’re prepping this dish ahead of time, assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. It’s a great meal for busy nights.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bread Bake is the perfect comfort food that’s quick to make yet full of rich flavors. The creamy garlic sauce pairs perfectly with the savory chicken, while the melted cheese makes every bite irresistible. And don’t forget about that crispy, garlicky bread—it adds texture and a delicious crunch that’s simply to die for!

Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to accommodate whatever ingredients you have on hand. You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey, sausage, or even vegetarian options like tofu or roasted vegetables. It’s a meal that everyone will enjoy, from kids to adults, and makes for great leftovers the next day.

Conclusion: A Hearty Meal That’s Full of Flavor

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or making a dish to impress your guests, Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bread Bake is sure to satisfy. It’s cheesy, garlicky, and downright comforting—everything you could ask for in a one-pan meal. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. This recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for busy nights, special occasions, or whenever you crave something hearty and delicious.

So the next time you’re looking for a satisfying meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare, try this Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bread Bake—your taste buds will thank you!