This Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that combines the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic. Topped with gooey melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping. With tender chicken and a luscious sauce, it’s an easy one-dish recipe that feels gourmet without the hassle. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple side salad to make a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (packed in oil, drained)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, creating a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the vegetables: Stir in the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce, cooking for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
Enjoy this creamy and hearty casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad!
