Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that's both easy to make and packed with flavor, this Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe is the answer! This recipe brings together the best of creamy, cheesy goodness with sun-dried tomatoes, tender chicken, spinach, and a blend of Italian seasonings, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious casserole step by step and discover tips for substitutions, variations, and serving ideas.

---

What is Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole?

Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole is a savory, creamy, and satisfying dish inspired by the flavors of Tuscany, Italy. It features chicken breasts, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce made with cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan, along with flavorful herbs and seasonings. The result is a casserole that's rich in taste, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

---

Ingredients List for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole

Before diving into the recipe, gather all the ingredients you'll need for this Tuscan chicken casserole. These ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with classic Mediterranean flavors. Here's what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 lbs total)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or oil from the sun-dried tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a hint of heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (for added texture and flavor)

---

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t worry if you’re missing some ingredients, or want to modify the recipe to suit your dietary preferences. Here are some substitution and variation ideas to help you customize this Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole:

1. Protein Substitutes:
   • If you don't have chicken breasts, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, richer flavor. Alternatively, use turkey breast, pork chops, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
2. Creamy Base Substitutions:
   • If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
3. Vegetable Variations:
   • Add more vegetables to make the casserole heartier. Zucchini, bell peppers, or artichokes would complement the Tuscan flavors beautifully.
4. Cheese Choices:
   • While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for a slightly different flavor profile.
5. Low-Carb Option:
   • For a keto-friendly version, skip any bread or pasta sides and keep the casserole as a stand-alone dish.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this delicious baked Tuscan chicken casserole? Follow these easy step-by-step instructions for a foolproof dish that’s guaranteed to impress!

---

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

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning on both sides. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or oil from the sun-dried tomatoes) over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, dried basil, oregano, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and chopped spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts. Remove the skillet from heat.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared casserole dish. Pour the creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken, making sure to cover each piece of chicken. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once baked, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Not Searing the Chicken:
   • Searing the chicken helps lock in moisture and gives it a flavorful crust. Skipping this step may result in less flavorful and drier chicken.
2. Using Low-Fat Dairy:
   • Avoid using low-fat cream or milk substitutes as they can curdle in the heat. Stick with heavy cream for a smooth, rich sauce.
3. Overcooking the Chicken:
   • Be sure to keep an eye on the baking time. Overcooking the chicken will result in dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
4. Not Draining the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
   • Be sure to drain excess oil from the sun-dried tomatoes to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving this delightful casserole. Here's how to serve and present it in a way that makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

How to Serve Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole:

• Family-Style: Bring the entire casserole dish to the table and let everyone serve themselves. This rustic presentation is perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together.
• Individual Portions: Serve the chicken breasts with a generous spoonful of sauce over each piece. Pair it with sides like garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole:

• Colorful Garnishes: Sprinkle the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color. You can also add a few extra sun-dried tomatoes or roasted cherry tomatoes on top for visual contrast.
• Serving Platter: For a more elegant presentation, transfer individual servings onto a clean white plate or rustic wooden board. Drizzle a little extra sauce over the top and add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme.

---

Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply follow the baking instructions, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Freezing: You can freeze this casserole before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach with frozen. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.

2. How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

This dish is naturally gluten-free if you ensure that all ingredients (like the sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings) are free from gluten. No flour or breadcrumbs are needed in the recipe.

3. Can I add pasta or rice to the casserole?

Yes! You can cook pasta or rice separately and serve the casserole over it, or you can mix cooked pasta directly into the sauce before baking for a one-dish meal.

4. Can I make this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole up to a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and then bake when you're ready.

---

Conclusion

This Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. With the perfect balance of chicken, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich sauce, it's a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The best part? It's incredibly versatile and easy to make, with plenty of options for customization. Whether you're feeding a large group or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to satisfy. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try today!

Print