Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite breakfast dish: the Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake! Seriously, it’s like a warm hug on a plate, combining crispy, savory chicken with fluffy waffles, all baked together in one glorious dish. Whenever I whip this up, my family can’t help but gather around the table, excitement bubbling in the air. It’s perfect for those laid-back weekend brunches or special occasions when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Just picture it: golden-brown, cheesy goodness that fills the house with a mouthwatering aroma. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to in your breakfast rotation. You won’t regret it!
Ingredients List
Okay, let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll want to make sure you have everything on hand to make this Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups waffle mix
- 2 cups milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup packed shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
These simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Make sure your chicken is all shredded and ready to go—it’s the star of the show! And that packed cheese? It adds that melty, gooey goodness we all love. So, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because we want everything to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the waffle mix, milk, eggs, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s nice and smooth. You’ll love the smell of the batter already!
- Next, gently fold in the shredded chicken and half of the cheese. Don’t be shy; mix it well so every bite is packed with flavor.
- Now, grab a greased baking dish (I like to use a 9×13 inch dish for this) and pour your delicious mixture right into it. It should look so inviting already!
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top—this is where the ooey-gooey factor comes in!
- Finally, drizzle that sweet maple syrup all over the top. Trust me, this adds a perfect touch of sweetness to balance the savory chicken.
- Pop it into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—it’ll be hard to resist the aroma!
And there you have it! This bake is not just easy to make; it’s also a total crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake! First off, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy mornings when you still want something delicious on the table. Seriously, you can whip this up in no time!
It’s also hearty and satisfying, which means it’ll keep you and your loved ones feeling full and happy all morning long. I love serving this at brunch gatherings—it’s a guaranteed hit! Everyone can dig in and enjoy a slice of that crispy chicken and fluffy waffle combo.
Plus, you can make it ahead of time! Just pop it in the fridge and bake it fresh when you’re ready. How convenient is that? And don’t forget about the versatility! You can easily add in your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to give it that extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
Honestly, once you try it, you’ll see why this bake has become a staple in my breakfast rotation. Every bite is pure comfort, and I know you’ll love it just as much as I do!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake turns out perfectly every time, here are my trusty tips! First, keep an eye on the baking time—every oven is a little different. Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark. You’re looking for that golden-brown top and a toothpick that comes out clean when inserted in the center. If you find it’s browning too quickly, just cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while it finishes baking.
Also, if you want to make this dish even heartier, consider adding some cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the mix. They not only boost the flavor but also bring in some extra nutrition. And remember, letting it cool for a few minutes before serving helps it set up nicely and makes for easier slicing. Happy baking!
Variations
Oh, the possibilities for this Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake are endless! If you want to switch things up, consider experimenting with different cheeses. Cheddar adds a sharp bite, while pepper jack brings a nice kick. You could even mix in some creamy goat cheese for a rich flavor—yum!
Feeling adventurous? Try adding spices like paprika or garlic powder to the batter for an extra flavor boost. And let’s not forget about vegetables! Spinach, bell peppers, or even sautéed mushrooms can easily sneak their way into this bake, making it even more nutritious and colorful.
You could also think about adding cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier twist. Whatever you choose, I promise it’ll be delicious—just let your creativity shine through!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, if you happen to have any leftovers from your Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake (which is rare in my house!), storing them is super easy. Just let the bake cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Trust me, it still tastes amazing even as leftovers!
When it’s time to reheat, you have a couple of great options. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend popping it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but keep it covered and heat in short intervals to prevent it from drying out. Either way, you’re in for a delicious treat! Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so the values here are just a general guideline. For each slice of this Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake, you can expect around 350 calories, with 15 grams of fat and 20 grams of protein to keep you feeling satisfied. It also has about 40 grams of carbohydrates, including 10 grams of sugar. Plus, with 600 milligrams of sodium, it’s good to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. Overall, it’s a hearty and filling option that balances comfort with nutrition. Enjoy every delicious bite while knowing you’re fueling your body right!
FAQ Section
Got questions about the Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries:
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, too—it’s a real time-saver!
How do I know when the bake is done?
You’ll want to look for a golden-brown top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If it jiggles too much, it needs more time!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the regular waffle mix for a gluten-free version, and you’re good to go. It’ll still be delicious!
Is it okay to add extra ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or spices to customize the flavor. This bake is super flexible!
How long can I store leftovers?
You can keep leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Just reheat it, and you’re all set for another tasty meal!
Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake: 5 Amazing Comfort Tips
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious and hearty breakfast dish combining chicken and waffles in one bake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups waffle mix
- 2 cups milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix waffle mix, milk, eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in shredded chicken and half of the cheese.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese and drizzle maple syrup over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with extra maple syrup if desired.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Bake