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
- Prepare the oven at 375F (190C) with a rack in the center position.
- 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.
- Gently incorporate cooked chicken pieces, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh chopped spinach into the creamy mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Transfer the entire mixture to a thoroughly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top, covering the entire surface.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a bubbling texture and golden-brown cheese crust.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle and sauce to slightly thicken.
- 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