Description
Hearty Tuscan chicken casserole delivers Italian countryside comfort with creamy herb-infused layers. Savory ingredients and simple preparation make this dish a delightful meal for families seeking robust Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups (170 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 tsps italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oven to a precise 375F (190C), ensuring an even heating environment for the casserole.
- Gently sizzle minced garlic in olive oil until its aromatic essence permeates the skillet, releasing rich flavors.
- Introduce fresh spinach to the garlic-infused pan, gently wilting the leaves until they transform into a vibrant, tender green.
- Carefully position chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking vessel, creating a smooth foundation for the dish.
- Generously scatter sun-dried tomatoes and the sauteed spinach across the chicken, creating a colorful and flavorful layer.
- Craft a luxurious sauce by whisking together heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, blending with Italian seasoning for depth of flavor.
- Cascade the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring complete coverage and maximum flavor absorption.
- Transfer the prepared casserole into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches perfect doneness.
- Look for golden, bubbling cheese and a thoroughly cooked chicken as indicators of the casserole’s readiness.
- Remove from the oven and let rest briefly before serving this sumptuous Tuscan-inspired dish piping hot.
Notes
- Swap chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version that maintains the rich, creamy texture.
- Reduce heavy cream calories by using half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed alternative.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of dried Italian seasoning to elevate the fresh, aromatic profile of the dish.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg