Name: Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp avocado oil; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 5 ounces baby spinach; 6 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, drained; 4 cups cooked chicken, chopped; 6 large eggs; 1 16-oz carton egg whites; 6 ounces feta cheese; 1 tsp sea salt to taste

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When I think of the perfect start to my day, Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole instantly comes to mind. There’s something so comforting about a warm, hearty casserole brimming with fresh ingredients. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was during a busy weekend morning when I had family over. I wanted to serve something that was both delicious and satisfying without spending all my time in the kitchen. This casserole turned out to be the ultimate solution. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and the rich flavor of feta cheese created a dish that everyone loved. The best part? It made enough to feed the crowd, with leftovers that were just as good the next day!

As I pulled the casserole from the oven, the golden crust was irresistible. The aroma of sautéed onion and garlic wafted through the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. I watched as my family gathered around the table, eager to dig in. Each bite was filled with cheesy goodness and the perfect balance of flavors, making it clear that I had stumbled upon a winner. Now, I often whip up this Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole for brunches, holidays, or even a cozy family dinner. It’s versatile, filling, and oh-so-delicious!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Whisk, Oven, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

Why This Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole Is So Good

It’s Comforting and Satisfying

There’s nothing quite like a warm casserole on a chilly morning. The Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole is wholesome and filling, providing the perfect comfort food for your breakfast table. It’s a dish that wraps you in warmth, making it a favorite during family gatherings and cozy weekends.

Easy to Prepare

This casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, which is a huge plus when you’re juggling busy mornings. With just a bit of chopping and some mixing, you can have this dish in the oven in no time. While it bakes, you can enjoy your morning coffee or spend quality time with your loved ones!

Great for Meal Prep

The Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time, refrigerate it, and simply reheat portions throughout the week. This way, you’ll have a nutritious breakfast ready to go without any fuss.

Packed with Nutritional Goodness

This dish combines a variety of ingredients that not only taste great but also offer health benefits. The spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the chicken adds a good dose of protein. It’s a balanced meal that keeps you energized throughout your day.

Versatile and Customizable

Another reason I love this casserole is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or your personal preferences. Don’t have feta cheese? Use cheddar or another favorite cheese instead. The possibilities are endless!

Delicious Leftovers

One of the best aspects of the Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole is how well it keeps. The flavors deepen, making the leftovers taste even better the next day. Whether you enjoy it for brunch or a late-night snack, you’ll be glad you made extra!

Ingredients Required for Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole

When preparing the Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole, the ingredients play a crucial role in bringing out the dish’s delightful flavors. The combination of chicken, spinach, and feta cheese not only makes it satisfying but also adds a nutritious punch. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 Tbsp avocado oil
1 yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
5 ounces baby spinach
6 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, drained
4 cups cooked chicken, chopped
6 large eggs
1 16-oz carton egg whites
6 ounces feta cheese
1 tsp sea salt to taste

How to Cook Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole

Cooking the Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve!

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s warming up, take a large 13” x 9” casserole dish and coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Next, heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften, typically around 5 to 8 minutes.
Once the onion is soft, add the minced garlic and baby spinach. Cover the skillet to allow the spinach to wilt, which should take about 2 minutes. Stir the mixture to combine everything, then add the drained sun-dried tomatoes.
Sprinkle the mixture with sea salt and remove it from heat. This combination will add depth and flavor to your casserole.
Transfer the sautéed chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom to create a solid base.
In a large bowl, whisk together the large eggs and egg whites until they are well-combined. Season the eggs with a bit more salt to suit your taste.
Pour this egg mixture evenly over the chicken and veggies in the casserole dish, ensuring that all ingredients are coated.
Now it’s time for the star ingredient: crumble the feta cheese and stir it gently into the mixture. This will enrich the dish and give it a creamy texture.
Place the casserole in the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. You want it to be golden brown on top and fully cooked through.
To check if it’s fully cooked, you can insert a meat thermometer into the center; it should read at least 190 degrees Fahrenheit. After baking, let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve the Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole warm, perhaps with toppings like sour cream, Greek yogurt, or fresh fruit for a complete meal experience.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Spray: Ensure you thoroughly spray the casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Egg Temperature: Room temperature eggs mix better, resulting in a fluffier texture.
Ingredient Prep: Chop all vegetables and chicken ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick or knife to check the center; it should come out clean when it’s ready.

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly and bake from frozen, adding extra time.
Pairing: This casserole goes wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad for a complete meal.
Variations: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients like mushrooms, or different cheeses.
Serving: It’s great for brunch, breakfast-for-dinner, or meal prep for busy weekdays.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole

When it comes to serving the Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole, the options are plentiful! Here are some ideas:

Fresh Salad: Pair it with a crisp garden salad topped with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
Fruit Salad: A bowl of assorted fruits can complement the savory flavors beautifully.
Toasted Bread: Serve with whole-grain toast or a warm baguette for added texture and heartiness.
Brunch Gatherings: This casserole is perfect for brunches, served alongside mimosas or coffee for a complete experience.
Personal Touch: Encourage guests to add their favorite toppings, whether it’s a dollop of sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh herbs.

FAQ

Yes! You can absolutely prepare the Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole ahead of time. Just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, you can pop it directly into the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

Leftover Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat the pieces in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. Just make sure to cover them to prevent drying out!

Yes, you can freeze the Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole. It’s best to freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, you can cook it straight from the freezer; just add a bit more time to the baking process to ensure it cooks through.

The beauty of the Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole is its versatility! You can easily swap out the feta cheese for other types of cheese like cheddar or mozzarella. Additionally, adding ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even different herbs can give it a unique twist that caters to your taste buds.

Conclusion

The Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Casserole is truly a standout dish that combines satisfying flavors and a comforting texture. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family brunch or a special gathering. I encourage you to give it a try; it might just become your new favorite breakfast option. Don’t hesitate to make this delightful casserole tonight and enjoy the warm, hearty goodness it brings!