Savory Bread Pudding with Fresh Chives

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Meanwhile, grease a 7- by 11-inch baking dish with butter and set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, chives, and salt and pepper to taste. Add bread cubes and toss to coat. Let stand for 15 minutes to allow bread to absorb milk-egg-chive mixture. Transfer bread to prepared baking dish and bake until top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack and let cool for 30 minutes.