Tuscan Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish that transports your taste buds to the sun-kissed hills of Italy with every bite. The creamy, rich flavors meld perfectly with tender chicken, creating a satisfying harmony of textures. With each forkful, you’re greeted by the warmth of savory herbs, a subtle hint of garlic, and a touch of rustic elegance. This dish effortlessly brings together the hearty essence of the Tuscan countryside, offering a cozy meal perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a family meal. It’s a delightful celebration of flavor, sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Tuscan Chicken Casserole
Tuscan Chicken Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce inspired by the flavors of Tuscany. With its blend of savory herbs, garlic, and comforting textures, it offers a satisfying and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 (4 ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained, or more to taste
- ½ cup chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, pressed
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1½ teaspoons chicken bouillon granules, such as Knorr®
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons oil from jar of sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly coat an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This ensures a smooth release and prevents sticking during baking.
- Coat both sides of the chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Arrange the seasoned chicken in the prepared dish. Layer fresh spinach on top, followed by mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes. Finish by sprinkling mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over everything for a rich, cheesy topping.
- For the sauce, whisk together heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, cream cheese, chicken bouillon, chicken broth, and sun-dried tomato oil in a bowl until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and toppings.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly, the chicken is cooked through, and the juices run clear. For accuracy, check the chicken’s internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C).
