Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, then you’ll adore this Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole. This dish is my go-to for busy weeknights when I need something delicious on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy cheese, succulent chicken, and vibrant spinach makes it feel special enough for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends.

What truly makes this casserole shine is how effortlessly it brings together wholesome ingredients into a delightful harmony. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: With its cheesy goodness and tender chicken, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Deliciously versatile: Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole. Each one plays an important role in crafting the delightful flavors of this dish.

Ingredients:
– 2 large chicken breasts (bisected horizontally to yield 4 thin fillets)
– 4 ounces of cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
– 3/4 cup of heavy cream
– 4 cloves of garlic (finely minced)
– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
– 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
– 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese (finely grated)
– 8 ounces of sun-dried tomatoes (well-drained and finely chopped; reserve the oil)
– 3/4 cup of fresh spinach (coarsely chopped)
– Kosher salt (to taste)
– Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own by trying out some of these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even tofu as a substitute for chicken if you want to switch things up.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or gouda for unique flavors.
• Spice things up: Add red pepper flakes or Italian sausage seasoning for a little kick!

How to Make Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Commence by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly. Starting with a hot oven helps achieve that perfect bubbly cheese topping we all love!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take those chicken breasts and slice them in half lengthwise. This gives you four thinner fillets that cook faster and absorb more flavor. Place them in a single layer within your baking dish, season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, and sprinkle half of the minced garlic over top. Setting them aside allows them to soak up those lovely seasonings.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with heavy cream. Beat these together until smooth—this creates a creamy base that clings beautifully to the chicken. Add in the remaining minced garlic along with onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Finally, mix in both Parmesan and half of the mozzarella cheese until everything is fully integrated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread that luscious cream cheese mixture evenly over your seasoned chicken fillets. Drizzle about one tablespoon of reserved sun-dried tomato oil over everything—it adds such depth! Scatter chopped sun-dried tomatoes around so every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 5: Initial Baking

Cover your baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. This helps retain moisture while it bakes in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This step is crucial for ensuring juicy chicken!

Step 6: Add Final Ingredients

Once done baking initially, carefully uncover your dish. Stir coarsely chopped spinach into that creamy sauce around the chicken—this not only adds nutrition but also beautiful color! Top everything off with remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Final Baking

Return your baking dish to the oven uncovered for another 10 minutes. This allows that glorious mozzarella cheese to melt beautifully while wilting down the spinach into perfection.

Step 8: Serving

Remove from oven and let your casserole rest briefly before serving—it’s hard to wait but worth it! Serve hot and enjoy every bite as you dig into this scrumptious meal full of love from my kitchen to yours!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

Creating the perfect Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole is a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes enhances the flavor of your casserole, making it more vibrant and enjoyable. Fresh ingredients can elevate any dish to a whole new level!

• Be careful with seasoning: Since cheese and sun-dried tomatoes are naturally salty, use kosher salt sparingly. This keeps your dish well-balanced without overwhelming the flavors.

• Allow the chicken to marinate: If you have time, season your chicken fillets and let them marinate for 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful casserole.

• Experiment with cheese: Don’t hesitate to mix up the cheeses! While parmesan and mozzarella work beautifully, adding a bit of provolone or gouda can introduce different textures and flavors that make your casserole even more delicious.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

Serving this delightful casserole can be just as enjoyable as preparing it. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more special!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a lovely pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the Italian flavors perfectly.
• Lemon zest: A light grating of lemon zest over the top before serving brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing citrus note.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is an excellent accompaniment that allows you to soak up every bit of delicious sauce from the casserole.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a nutritious element and colorful presentation alongside your casserole.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Quinoa or rice pilaf: These grains serve as a hearty base for your casserole while absorbing any extra sauce, making each bite satisfying.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole will surely impress family and friends at any meal! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the casserole is completely cooled.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can uncover it for the last few minutes to crisp up the cheese.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole!

Can I use other vegetables in the Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. Just remember to chop them finely so they cook evenly.

How long does the Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole last in the fridge?

The casserole lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole without cream cheese?

Yes! You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or even a thick cashew cream for a different flavor profile while keeping it creamy!

What should I serve with Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that wonderful sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. The combination of flavors will surely impress anyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!