Name: BBQ Chicken and Apple Bread Puring
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked BBQ chicken, shredded (leftover rotisserie chicken works great); 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 medium apples); 4 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French bread or a hearty loaf); 1/2 cup onion, diced; 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional); 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

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BBQ Chicken and Apple Bread Pudding is a unique, savory-sweet twist on the traditional bread pudding. Combining the smoky richness of BBQ chicken with the sweetness of apples, this dish offers layers of flavor that are both comforting and unexpected. With tender chunks of BBQ chicken, juicy apples, and a custard-like texture, this bread pudding is the perfect fusion of savory and sweet, making it ideal for a hearty dinner, a special brunch, or even a creative side dish for your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Chicken and Apple Bread Pudding is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings together two classic flavors—savory BBQ chicken and the sweetness of apples—into a comforting casserole. The bread pudding absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a unique and satisfying meal that is perfect for fall or anytime you crave a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and can be made in advance, making it an ideal option for busy nights or special occasions. Whether served as a main course or a side, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked BBQ chicken, shredded (leftover rotisserie chicken works great)
2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 medium apples)
4 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French bread or a hearty loaf)
1/2 cup onion, diced
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
3 large eggs
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the Apples and Onion: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the diced apples, cinnamon, and thyme, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but still firm. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Bread Pudding Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and maple syrup (if using). Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the cubed bread and allow it to soak in the mixture for about 10 minutes, gently stirring to make sure all the bread is coated and absorbed.
Assemble the Pudding: Add the cooked BBQ chicken, sautéed apples and onions, and shredded cheddar cheese to the bread mixture. Stir to combine everything evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press down gently with a spoon to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden on top and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be crispy, while the inside should be moist and custardy.
Serve: Let the bread pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Add Bacon: For extra smokiness and flavor, add cooked bacon or pancetta to the bread pudding mixture.
Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar cheese for other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the BBQ chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
Different Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a more balanced flavor or sweeter apples like Honeycrisp for added sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add a little cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the apple-onion mixture for a spicy touch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, cover the bread pudding with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

BBQ Chicken and Apple Bread Puring

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding the day before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use store-bought BBQ chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe, saving you time on cooking the chicken from scratch.

3. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any type of bread you have on hand, but a sturdy bread like French bread, sourdough, or challah works best to hold up to the custard mixture.

4. How do I prevent the bread from getting too soggy?

Make sure to let the bread soak in the custard mixture for the right amount of time—about 10 minutes. If the bread is too soft before baking, it may get soggy. Press down gently to make sure it absorbs evenly.

5. Can I freeze the bread pudding?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked bread pudding for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a smoked cheese for added depth.

7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the BBQ chicken with mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or even tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.

8. Can I add more fruit to the bread pudding?

Yes! You can add other fruits like pears, raisins, or cranberries to the bread pudding for extra flavor and texture.

9. Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety for best results.

10. How do I know when the bread pudding is done?

The bread pudding is done when the top is golden brown and a knife or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be crispy, and the middle should be soft and custard-like.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken and Apple Bread Pudding is a deliciously unique dish that combines the best of savory and sweet in one comforting meal. The smoky BBQ chicken, tender apples, and creamy custard-soaked bread come together in a way that’s both satisfying and exciting. This dish is perfect for dinner, brunch, or as a side for your next gathering. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste, making it a must-try for anyone looking to add something special to their meal rotation.