This easy breakfast casserole combines shredded chicken, sweet potatoes, eggs, and cheese into a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for meal prep, brunch, or feeding a crowd. Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, this gluten-free breakfast bake is ideal for busy mornings or a make-ahead breakfast option. Learn how to customize it with your favorite toppings, including bacon or veggies, and enjoy a delicious, family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Shredded Chicken
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon 14-spice blend (or your favorite seasoning mix)
For the Casserole
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ cup diced cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 8 large eggs
- 2 ½ tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Prepare the Shredded Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, and 14-spice blend in a pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the chicken and set aside.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Once the potatoes are almost tender (about 15-20 minutes), add smoked paprika, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×11-inch baking dish.
- Layer the cooked sweet potatoes evenly in the dish.
- Add the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, and 1 tablespoon of butter (cut into small pieces) on top.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy whipping cream. Pour the mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. If using bacon, add it as the final topping.
Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the edges are golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs for sustained energy.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheese.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Tips
- Dice sweet potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
- If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set completely.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon. Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy whipping cream, and swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
- Different Protein: Swap chicken with turkey sausage, ham, or plant-based protein crumbles.
FAQs
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Yes, just thaw them before cooking to ensure even texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Absolutely! Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Serving
Serve this breakfast casserole on its own or with a side of fresh fruit, avocado slices, or a mixed greens salad for a complete meal.
Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or a smoothie for a satisfying breakfast combo.
Breakfast Casserole
4
servings15
minutes15
minutesIngredients
For the Shredded Chicken
2 cups chicken broth
2 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon 14-spice blend (or your favorite seasoning mix)
For the Casserole
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ cup diced cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons butter, divided
8 large eggs
2 ½ tablespoons heavy whipping cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Prepare the Shredded Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, and 14-spice blend in a pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Once the potatoes are almost tender (about 15-20 minutes), add smoked paprika, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×11-inch baking dish.
- Layer the cooked sweet potatoes evenly in the dish.
- Add the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, and 1 tablespoon of butter (cut into small pieces) on top.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy whipping cream. Pour the mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. If using bacon, add it as the final topping.
- Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the edges are golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Leave a Reply