Creamy Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe

Savory Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe That Wows

Crafting a delightful baked tuscan chicken casserole brings pure comfort to your kitchen table.

Creamy textures and aromatic herbs dance together in this Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Layers of tender chicken meld seamlessly with rich, sun-dried tomatoes and fragrant basil.

Hearty ingredients create a warm embrace that feels like a culinary hug.

Soft mozzarella adds a decadent touch to every single bite.

Simple yet sophisticated, this casserole promises a meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Come cook with me and turn an ordinary evening into an extraordinary dining experience.

Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Full Of Mediterranean Flavors

  • Tackle Dinner with Ease: This casserole transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet meal without complex cooking techniques, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want restaurant-quality flavor.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Adaptable recipe allows swapping proteins, adding different vegetables, or adjusting seasonings to match family preferences and dietary needs.
  • One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein, vegetables, and creamy sauce in a single baking dish, minimizing kitchen cleanup and providing a complete nutritious meal with minimal effort.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Tuscan-inspired ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian herbs create a sophisticated taste that appeals to both adults and children, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients For Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: A tender and flavorful protein that serves as the core of this comforting Tuscan-inspired casserole.
Dairy Components:
  • Heavy Cream, Cream Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy ingredients that provide rich texture and depth of flavor to the casserole.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Aromatic spices that enhance the overall taste profile and bring authentic Tuscan-style seasoning to the dish.
  • Fresh Basil: A bright, fresh herb that adds a final aromatic garnish to the baked casserole.
Vegetable and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach: Colorful and nutritious ingredients that contribute Mediterranean-inspired flavors and additional texture to the casserole.
Liquid Components:
  • Chicken Broth: A savory liquid that helps create a smooth and cohesive sauce for the casserole.

Step-By-Step Instructions For Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) and get ready for some serious flavor magic.

Step 2: Create A Dreamy Sauce

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine these delectable ingredients:
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Whisk everything together until the mixture becomes silky smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Build Your Casserole Base

Gently fold into the creamy sauce:
  • Cooked chicken
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Chopped spinach

Mix the ingredients until they’re beautifully incorporated and coated with the luscious sauce.

Step 4: Prepare The Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

Step 5: Transfer And Cheese It Up

Pour the entire mixture into the prepared dish and sprinkle generously with:
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the cheese turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 7: Finish With Fresh Flair

Garnish with fresh basil leaves right before serving. Enjoy this decadent, restaurant-worthy dish hot and straight from the oven!

Tips To Perfect Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

  • Opt for rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor to the casserole.
  • Drain sun-dried tomatoes thoroughly to prevent excess liquid in the dish.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and customize seasoning.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
  • Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to enhance the Tuscan-inspired taste profile.

Variations To Explore With Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace chicken with riced cauliflower and use almond milk instead of heavy cream for a keto-friendly version.
  • Mediterranean Seafood Option: Substitute chicken with shrimp or white fish, adding kalamata olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired casserole.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream, nutritional yeast, and dairy-free cheese substitutes to create a lactose-free and vegan-friendly dish.
  • Herb Garden Remix: Incorporate fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage instead of Italian seasoning for a more robust herbal flavor profile.

How To Present Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

  • Tuscan Sunset Dinner Party: Invite friends over and serve this creamy casserole with crisp white wine, creating a cozy Mediterranean-inspired evening meal.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during busy workweeks, keeping the delicious Tuscan flavors ready to enjoy.
  • Rustic Side Companion: Pair with crusty garlic bread or a light arugula salad to complement the rich chicken casserole, balancing the creamy texture with fresh ingredients.
  • Family Comfort Platter: Serve family-style directly from the baking dish, encouraging everyone to scoop generous portions and share a warm, hearty meal together.

Storage Tips For Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer the casserole to shallow, sealed containers to help it cool quickly and evenly before refrigerating.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, ensuring you label with the date and contents.

FAQs

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, choose low-fat cream cheese, and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to increase nutritional value.

  • Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the mixture to prevent a watery casserole.

  • What protein alternatives work well in this dish?

Swap chicken with cooked turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even white fish like cod for variety.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

The current recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check individual ingredient labels to confirm no hidden gluten sources.

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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe


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4.6 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Delectable Tuscan chicken casserole delivers Mediterranean comfort with creamy herbs and tender chicken. Rich layers of flavor blend perfectly, offering a satisfying meal that transports you to the Italian countryside.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and cubed)

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese (softened)

Vegetables and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 375F (190C) with a rack in the center position.
  2. Whisk together cream, chicken broth, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl until completely smooth and well-combined.
  3. Gently incorporate cooked chicken pieces, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh chopped spinach into the creamy mixture, ensuring even distribution.
  4. Transfer the entire mixture to a thoroughly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
  5. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top, covering the entire surface.
  6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a bubbling texture and golden-brown cheese crust.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle and sauce to slightly thicken.
  8. Garnish with freshly torn basil leaves for a vibrant finish and serve immediately while still hot.

Notes

  • Adjust cream consistency by using half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
  • Replace chicken with white beans or tofu for a vegetarian twist that maintains creamy texture.
  • Reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth and monitoring added salt during seasoning.
  • Enhance meal prep by assembling casserole ahead and refrigerating before baking, which allows flavors to meld deeper.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 368 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 31 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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