The Coziest Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe Ever

Crafting a delectable baked Tuscan chicken casserole brings pure comfort right to your dinner table.

Mediterranean flavors dance through every savory bite of this hearty dish.

Succulent chicken pieces nestle among roasted vegetables and aromatic herbs.

Creamy textures and robust seasonings promise a meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Tender ingredients meld together, creating a symphony of taste that transports you to the rolling hills of tuscany.

Minimal prep work means maximum enjoyment, making this recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Dive into this culinary adventure and savor each delightful spoonful.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients in this Tuscan Chicken Casserole?

The key ingredients are chicken, heavy cream, cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and creamy Mediterranean-inspired dish.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. You can assemble it in advance and bake when ready to serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure all your ingredients like chicken broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free. The recipe itself is naturally gluten-free, so no major modifications are needed.

Why Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Works Well

• Craft Comfort Quickly: Dive into a one-dish wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a mouth-watering meal without complicated techniques or endless prep work.
• Nutrition Meets Flavor: Pack your plate with protein-rich chicken, nutrient-dense spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a balanced dish that satisfies hunger and taste buds simultaneously.
• Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings where everyone craves a hearty, creamy casserole that feels like a warm culinary hug.
• Minimal Kitchen Mess: Combine ingredients in a single bowl, transfer to a baking dish, and let the oven do the magic, minimizing cleanup and maximizing deliciousness with minimal effort.

Ingredients Needed for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

• Chicken: Tender and cooked protein that provides the main substance of the casserole.
• Cooked Chicken: Adds bulk and protein to the creamy Tuscan-style dish.

• Heavy Cream, Cream Cheese: Creates a rich and smooth base that adds luxurious creaminess to the casserole.
• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Provides melty, golden topping with a sharp and tangy flavor profile.

• Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Adds depth and traditional Italian-style seasoning to the dish.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach: Contributes vibrant Mediterranean flavors and nutritional value.

• Fresh Basil: Provides a bright, aromatic finishing touch to the casserole.

• Chicken Broth: Helps create a moist and flavorful base for the casserole.

How to Prepare Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Get your oven ready by cranking the temperature to 375F (190C). This will ensure a perfectly heated cooking environment for your delicious casserole.

Step 2: Whip Together the Creamy Base

• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Softened cream cheese
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper

Blend these ingredients until they form a smooth, velvety mixture that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Mix in the Hearty Fillings

• Cooked chicken
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Chopped spinach

Stir everything together so each bite will be packed with flavor and texture.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and pour in the luscious mixture. Spread it evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

Step 5: Sprinkle Cheesy Goodness

• Shredded mozzarella
• Parmesan cheese

Create a golden, melty blanket that will make this dish irresistible.

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 bubbly and the cheese turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serve the casserole piping hot and watch everyone dig in with excitement.

Useful Tips for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that keeps the creamy texture intact.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor to the casserole.
• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
• Enhance nutrition by adding extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini to the mix.
• Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for quick weeknight meals that reheat perfectly.

Creative Takes on Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk, use vegan cream cheese, and swap mozzarella for dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute spinach with cauliflower rice and remove sun-dried tomatoes to reduce carbohydrate content.
• Protein Powerhouse: Add diced turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein, and incorporate diced bell peppers for additional nutrients.
• Mediterranean Makeover: Replace Italian seasoning with oregano and thyme, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a Greek-inspired version.

Pairing Suggestions for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

• Rustic Family Feast: Serve this Tuscan chicken casserole with a warm crusty Italian bread to soak up the creamy sauce. Perfect for sopping up every delicious bite.
• Elegant Dinner Party Plating: Create individual portions in small ramekins for a sophisticated presentation. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a gourmet touch.
• Hearty Meal Companion: Pair with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy casserole. The fresh greens will cut through the dish's decadence and add a crisp contrast.
• Quick Lunch Transformation: Serve cold or at room temperature as a delightful next-day lunch. Pack in meal prep containers for an easy work or school lunch that's packed with flavor and protein.

Proper Storage for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
• Transfer the casserole to a sealed glass or plastic container, ensuring no air exposure to prevent bacterial growth.
• Cool the dish completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and potential soggy texture.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil for extra protection against refrigerator odors.

Simple Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 10 reviews

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

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Description

Baked Tuscan chicken casserole blends Italian countryside flavors with comforting home-style cooking. Creamy herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken create a memorable Mediterranean-inspired meal you’ll savor with pure culinary delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

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

Dairy:

• 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
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the creamy sauce by whisking together heavy cream, chicken broth, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until silky and uniform.
2. Incorporate cooked chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped spinach into the sauce, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a consistent layer.
4. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses across the top, creating a rich, golden coverage.
5. Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges bubble and the cheese turns a golden-brown color.
6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the casserole to set.
7. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a vibrant, aromatic finish before serving hot.

Notes

• Enhance the dish’s nutrition by using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter, protein-packed alternative.
• Create a gluten-free version by ensuring all ingredients like broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.
• Boost vegetable content by adding extra spinach or incorporating roasted zucchini and bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
• Experiment with protein variations like shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or plant-based chicken substitutes for diverse dietary needs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg