This Tuscan Chicken Casserole is a warm and cozy dish packed with chicken, creamy sauce, and colorful veggies. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Every bite is a mix of cheesy goodness and savory herbs that makes my taste buds dance. I love serving this with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that creamy sauce! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this casserole because they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. You can substitute with thighs if you like a richer taste or even cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These are important for that tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, use fresh cherry tomatoes; just roast them briefly until soft. They won’t have the same depth, but they’ll still add a nice burst of flavor.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add great texture. If you want to switch it up, try using spinach or kale for a different veggie twist. Just sauté them briefly before adding to the dish.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half works well. Alternatively, you can use coconut milk for a dairy-free version, but be aware it will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the chicken properly is key to a great casserole. Start by browning the chunks in the skillet. This locks in flavors while keeping them juicy.
- Don’t fully cook the chicken in the pan; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Ensure the heat is medium, so you can evenly brown the chicken without burning.
- Keep stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
This way, the chicken stays tender and juicy throughout the casserole. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Tuscan Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and another 25 minutes for baking, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Before you start cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your casserole.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re fragrant and the onion turns translucent (around 3-4 minutes).
3. Brown the Chicken:
Next, toss in the chicken chunks, cooking them until they’re browned on all sides but not completely cooked through (this should take about 5 minutes).
4. Add the Veggies:
Now it’s time to mix in the sliced mushrooms and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, along with the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for another 3 minutes until the mushrooms begin to soften.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Mix in Cheese and Parsley:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Save a bit of parsley for garnish later!
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer your chicken and sauce mix into a casserole dish, spreading it evenly so every bit gets that creamy goodness.
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (you can check with a meat thermometer) and the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors relax and settle down.
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with the reserved parsley before serving. This dish is delicious served hot, paired with crusty bread or over your favorite pasta. Enjoy the warm, Tuscan flavors!
This Tuscan Chicken Casserole is a delightful mix of creamy, cheesy, and herby flavors that will surely satisfy your taste buds. Happy cooking! 😊
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind, though, that substituting with coconut milk will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the casserole again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave in short intervals.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cooked lentils. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for the vegetables to ensure they are cooked through.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce or over pasta for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad also complements the flavors nicely!
