Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole is a lovely, comforting dish filled with tender chicken, creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and melted cheese. It’s an easy way to bring a bit of Italian-inspired flavor to your dinner table without too much fuss. The combination of juicy chicken and that rich, cheesy topping makes it a total winner in my book.
I love making this casserole when I want something that feels a little fancy but still comes together quickly. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how the sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy pop that balances the creamy sauce perfectly. I usually prep everything the night before, so it’s ready to pop in the oven the next day, which makes dinner time way less stressful.
When I serve this casserole, I like to pair it with a simple side of roasted veggies or a fresh green salad. It’s also fantastic with a warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce. This dish always feels like a cozy, satisfying meal that brings everyone around the table to slow down and enjoy the good flavors and good company.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless. You can use thighs if you prefer a juicier result, but adjust cooking time accordingly. If you’re short on time, thinly pound the breasts to cook faster and more evenly.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a sweet, tangy depth to the sauce. If unavailable, roasted red peppers make a nice substitute or use extra cherry tomatoes for milder flavor.
Heavy cream: This gives the casserole its rich and creamy texture. For a lighter dish, try half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty sharpness, while mozzarella melts perfectly on top for gooey goodness. Grated Pecorino Romano can be swapped for Parmesan if you want a saltier taste.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts quickly and blends well into the creamy sauce. You can replace it with kale or Swiss chard for a slightly different texture and flavor.
How Do I Get Tender, Juicy Chicken in a Baked Casserole?
Getting juicy chicken means avoiding drying it out while baking. Here’s what helps:
- Season the chicken well beforehand for flavor.
- Sear the chicken in olive oil first to lock in juices and add color.
- Don’t overcook—bake until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
- Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken so it stays moist while baking.
Also, letting the chicken rest a few minutes after baking keeps juices inside. This simple technique makes a big difference in tenderness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe baking dish – I recommend a 9×13-inch dish to hold everything comfortably and allow even baking.
- Large skillet – great for searing the chicken and sautéing the garlic and vegetables, saving time on cleanup.
- Meat thermometer – helps ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping tomatoes, garlic, and herbs easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredients like cream and cheese.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or pork cutlets for a different protein option that still works well with the sauce.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and flavor in the sauce.
- Use different cheeses like Asiago or Fontina for varied cheesy flavors and textures.
- Mix in a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the sauce before baking.
Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: fresh rosemary sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. So around 40 minutes total, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole baking dish so your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Season and Sear the Chicken:
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and half the Italian herbs on your chicken breasts. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. Then, place the chicken into your prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, the remaining Italian herbs, and spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together gently. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted into the sauce.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the creamy tomato and spinach sauce evenly over your chicken breasts in the baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top.
Bake uncovered in your oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and rosemary sprigs if you like. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite sides — garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad work wonderfully!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Casserole?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture that can affect browning.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken a day ahead. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if cooking cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, stirring the sauce to maintain creaminess.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve with This?
Try pairing with garlic bread to soak up the sauce, a simple green salad for freshness, or roasted vegetables for a hearty, balanced meal.
