“`html
If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting bread that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe is absolutely the answer. It combines melty, golden cheese with tender bits of chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, all infused with fresh herbs that brighten every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or hosting friends, this bread brings hearty flavors and a delightful texture that’s sure to become a household favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtful ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating a rich, savory loaf with gooey cheese, tender chicken, and a satisfying blend of herbs that lift the whole dish.
- 2 cups shredded cheese: Choose cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination for melty, flavorful goodness that binds everything together beautifully.
- 1 cup cooked chicken: Adds protein and a comforting, hearty touch without overpowering the flavors.
- 2 cups cooked pasta: Penne or rotini work best, providing tasty, textured bites in the bread.
- 1/2 cup milk: Gives moisture and helps create a tender crumb in this quick bread.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Melted butter enriches the bread with a silky finish and deep flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients into harmony.
How to Make Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for giving your bread a golden crust while ensuring the inside remains moist and cheesy.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
Take a large mixing bowl and toss together the cooked pasta, shredded cheese, and cooked chicken. This mix packs the bread with hearty flavors and textures upfront.
Step 3: Add Milk, Butter, and Seasoning
Pour in the milk and melted butter, then season generously with salt and pepper. Stir everything until well combined — this blend will make the bread wonderfully tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Transfer your mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For an extra cheesy top, sprinkle a little more shredded cheese over the surface to create that irresistible bubbly crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slip the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the bread is beautifully golden and bubbling with melted cheese. The smell at this point is absolutely mouthwatering!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, serve your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe immediately. It’s best enjoyed warm when those flavors and textures are at their peak.
How to Serve Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme on top right before serving adds a pop of color and fresh aroma, highlighting the bread’s herbaceous notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
This quick bread pairs wonderfully with light salads, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of steaming soup, making it a versatile companion for any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut into chunky squares and serve alongside a variety of dips—like a garlicky aioli or a spicy marinara—or transform it into a savory bruschetta base topped with fresh tomatoes and basil for an impressive appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. They’ll keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days, making for easy next-day snacks or additions to meals.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in foil or freezer-safe bags and pop it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Reheating
To bring your Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe back to life, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but feel free to experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or a blend you love. Each cheese will bring a unique twist to the bread.
Is it necessary to include cooked pasta in the recipe?
Yes, the cooked pasta is what makes this bread so special and hearty. It adds texture and bulk, turning it into a satisfying meal rather than just a simple bread.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Definitely. Just skip the chicken or substitute it with your favorite plant-based protein or extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a veggie-packed version.
How should I adjust the baking time if I use a larger dish?
If your baking dish is larger and the bread layer is thinner, reduce the baking time slightly, checking for a golden crust and bubbling cheese as your guide.
What herbs work best in this quick bread?
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, rosemary, and chives are fantastic choices. They offer bright, fragrant notes that balance the richness of the cheese and chicken beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm slice of this Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe fresh from the oven. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavors that make everyone smile. If you’re ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious homemade delight, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
“`
Print
Herb & Cheese Quick Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a savory, comforting dish combining cheesy goodness, tender cooked chicken, and pasta baked to golden perfection. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an easy, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to warm up while you prepare the bread mixture.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and shredded cheese thoroughly.
- Add liquids and seasoning: Stir in the milk and melted butter into the mixture. Season well with salt and pepper according to your taste, mixing until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let it cool slightly, then serve immediately to enjoy warm, cheesy bread bursting with fresh herbs and flavor.
Notes
- Use cooked pasta al dente for best texture to avoid mushiness after baking.
- You can substitute cooked chicken with turkey or omit for a vegetarian option.
- Add herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme for extra flavor if desired.
- Feel free to use any cheese blend you prefer, such as gouda or Monterey Jack.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
