Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe

If you're craving a warm, comforting dish loaded with rich flavors, look no further than this Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole. Featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, this casserole brings all the flavors of Tuscany to your kitchen. It’s easy to make, hearty enough to serve a crowd, and perfect for both weeknight dinners or special occasions. Follow this guide for everything you need to know to make a delicious baked Tuscan chicken casserole that everyone will love.

What is Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole?

Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole is an oven-baked dish that combines classic Tuscan ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce with juicy chicken breasts. It’s a wholesome, crowd-pleasing dish with layers of flavor that come together beautifully in the oven. The casserole format makes it convenient for meal prep, and it can easily be paired with sides like pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients List for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to create a flavorful and creamy Tuscan chicken casserole:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a more tender and juicy cut.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped: These add a tangy sweetness and rich flavor.
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves: Adds color, flavor, and nutrition to the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For a rich and creamy sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce while keeping it light.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a savory, nutty flavor to the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This helps give the casserole a cheesy, melty top.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: A key flavor component for that classic Tuscan taste.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme to flavor the chicken and sauce.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: For a subtle smokiness and added color.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
• Salt and pepper: To season the chicken and sauce.
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional): For garnish to add a burst of freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this baked Tuscan chicken casserole recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:

• Chicken Alternatives: You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier. You could even use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
• Vegetables: Feel free to swap spinach for kale or arugula. You could also add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more veggies.
• Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or Gruyère for a different cheesy flavor. You can also use Pecorino Romano in place of Parmesan for a sharper taste.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and swap out the cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Low-Carb: To keep it low-carb, you can avoid adding pasta or rice and serve it as is or with a side of cauliflower rice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect baked Tuscan chicken casserole:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season and Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and half of the Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Prepare the Cream Sauce: Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and the remaining Italian seasoning. Continue cooking for a few minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
5. Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and let them wilt into the sauce. This will only take a couple of minutes. Once the spinach is wilted, turn off the heat.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the chicken breasts to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of freshness.

How to Cook Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the chicken by seasoning it with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken until golden brown in olive oil, then set it aside.

Step 2: In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to release their flavors. This adds depth and sweetness to the dish.

Step 3: Create the sauce by adding chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Let it simmer and thicken slightly. Then, stir in fresh spinach until wilted.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole by placing the chicken in a baking dish, covering it with the creamy sauce, and sprinkling mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Chicken: Don’t fully cook the chicken while searing it in the pan. It will finish cooking in the oven, ensuring it stays juicy and tender.
2. Not Thickening the Sauce: Be sure to simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly. If the sauce is too thin when it goes into the oven, it won’t coat the chicken as well and might become too watery.
3. Using Low-Fat Cream: Full-fat cream is best for this recipe as it provides the rich, creamy texture. Using a lighter cream might result in a thinner sauce.
4. Not Sautéing the Garlic: Always cook the garlic just until fragrant. Overcooking garlic can lead to a bitter taste, which can affect the overall flavor of the dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Serve with Pasta or Rice: This casserole pairs beautifully with pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti) or a side of fluffy rice. The creamy sauce coats the grains perfectly, making every bite delicious.
• Pair with Crusty Bread: Serve the dish with some warm, crusty bread to mop up the flavorful sauce. Garlic bread or a simple French baguette would work wonders.
• Add a Fresh Salad: To balance out the richness of the casserole, serve it with a simple green salad, perhaps with a lemon vinaigrette, to cut through the creaminess.

How to Serve Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a relaxed, family-style dinner. Simply place the dish in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
• Individual Portions: Plate the chicken breast with a generous serving of the creamy sauce over rice or pasta. Top with a little more Parmesan and fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Portion out the casserole into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well, making it great for weekday lunches.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

• Casserole Dish: Serve the dish in a beautifully rustic casserole dish for a cozy, comforting presentation.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle the finished casserole with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of green color that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Rustic Family-Style: Pair with warm bread, a bottle of wine, and a side salad for a simple yet elegant Tuscan-inspired meal.

Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe Tips

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce settle and makes it easier to serve.
• Double the Recipe for Leftovers: This dish makes great leftovers, so consider doubling the recipe for meal prep or to enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They’re juicier and more forgiving in terms of cooking time, so feel free to use them if you prefer.

Q: How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
A: You can store the baked Tuscan chicken casserole in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once it has completely cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, though the sauce may not be as thick.

Conclusion

This Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich, creamy sauce made from Parmesan, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s easy to make, great for leftovers, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, it’s a versatile and delicious meal that will quickly become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try for a taste of Tuscany in your own kitchen!

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