Craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor? This Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole is the perfect solution. It’s loaded with juicy chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, all baked together with a creamy, cheesy sauce. Whether you're preparing a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Read on to learn how to make this delicious dish from start to finish!
What is a “Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole”?
"Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole" is a warm and comforting dish inspired by the rich flavors of Tuscany. It combines tender, seasoned chicken with classic Mediterranean ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic, all brought together with a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is then baked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while the casserole develops a golden, bubbling top. Whether you're a fan of Italian-inspired dishes or just love easy, one-pan meals, this casserole will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients List for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole
Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. This recipe requires simple, flavorful ingredients that are easily found at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious casserole:
Ingredients for the Chicken and Veggies:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (lightly packed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredients for the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Additional Ingredients:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
Not all ingredients are set in stone! There’s plenty of room to make this Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole your own. Here are a few substitution and variation ideas to suit your tastes or dietary needs:
- Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute to make this casserole lactose-free.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the labels of your ingredients (especially chicken broth) to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
- More Veggies: Add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to pack in more nutrients.
- Pasta Addition: For a heartier version, mix in cooked pasta like penne or fusilli before baking to create a one-pan pasta casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to dive into making this savory Tuscan Chicken Casserole? Let’s go step by step to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray, and set it aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. (You don't need to cook it all the way through as it will finish in the oven.) Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Veggies
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts slightly, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until smooth. Pour the creamy mixture over the seared chicken breasts in the baking dish.
Step 5: Combine and Assemble
Top the chicken with the sautéed veggies. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) and the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and you’re ready to serve!
How to Cook Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season and sear the chicken in olive oil until golden brown.
- Sauté the vegetables (onions, garlic, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes).
- Prepare the creamy sauce by mixing cream, broth, Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese.
- Layer everything in a baking dish: chicken, veggies, then cheese sauce.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve with fresh herbs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken during the searing process. Remember, it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Skipping the Searing: Searing the chicken adds depth of flavor and helps seal in juices, so don’t skip this step.
- Using Low-Fat Dairy: Opt for full-fat dairy ingredients like heavy cream and cream cheese to achieve the rich and creamy texture.
- Underseasoning: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. Be sure to salt the chicken and sauce appropriately to bring out the full flavors.
- Not Wilting the Spinach: Sautéing the spinach briefly helps it blend more smoothly into the casserole.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you present your Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole can make all the difference! Here are some serving and presentation tips to wow your guests:
- Serve with Crusty Bread: A loaf of fresh, warm crusty bread will pair perfectly with this creamy casserole, ideal for soaking up the sauce.
- Pair with a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
- Offer a Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti would complement the Tuscan flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole
- Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, letting everyone scoop their portion. This rustic, family-style approach works great for casual dinners.
- Individual Plates: For a more elegant presentation, slice the chicken breasts and arrange them neatly on individual plates, then drizzle with extra sauce and garnish.
Presentation Ideas for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole
- Rustic Elegance: Serve in a cast iron or ceramic baking dish with the golden, bubbling cheese still visible for a cozy, rustic feel.
- Minimalist Plating: Arrange the chicken with a side of colorful roasted vegetables and garnish with fresh herbs for a modern, minimalistic presentation.
Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it, then bake it when ready to serve.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Simply freeze it before baking, and when you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.
- Reheating: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and often result in a juicier casserole.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole without baking, freeze it for up to 3 months, and then thaw in the fridge before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I add pasta to this casserole?
Yes! If you’d like to make it heartier, mix in cooked pasta before baking.
Conclusion
This Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with rich, savory flavors and a creamy texture that’s irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this easy-to-follow recipe will become a go-to favorite. Serve it with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Don't wait—try this recipe today, and enjoy the warm, hearty flavors of Tuscany right from your own kitchen!
PrintBaked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe
This baked Tuscan chicken casserole recipe is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts baked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a blend of Italian herbs. It’s a perfect one-pan meal for weeknights or family dinners, combining robust flavors in a low-carb, gluten-free recipe. The creaminess and savory taste make this casserole a household favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove from heat.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in a casserole dish, pour the sauce over the chicken, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Serve with pasta or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
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