Looking for an easy yet flavorful dinner that brings all the comforting vibes? Look no further than Bruschetta Chicken Casserole! This dish is a hearty combination of juicy, tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in a cinch, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with a group, this casserole is guaranteed to leave everyone satisfied.
What’s in Bruschetta Chicken Casserole?
This casserole is a blend of simple ingredients that work in harmony to create a delicious meal bursting with flavor. From the juicy tomatoes and fresh basil to the savory mozzarella and Parmesan, every bite is a taste of Italy! Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients that make this dish so amazing:
- Cooked Chicken: This is the protein-packed base of the casserole. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook your own chicken breast, shredded or cubed to your preference.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes give the dish a burst of juicy, summery flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not in season, canned diced tomatoes can also do the job!
- Red Onion: Adding a touch of sweetness and crunch, red onion adds both flavor and vibrant color to the casserole.
- Garlic: Aromatic and savory, garlic is a key ingredient that adds depth and an irresistible fragrance to the dish.
- Dried Basil and Oregano: These classic Italian herbs give the casserole its signature flavor profile, adding warmth and a hint of earthiness.
- Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey and creamy texture throughout the casserole. Whole-milk mozzarella adds richness, but you can also use part-skim mozzarella for a lighter option.
- Parmesan Cheese: The sharp, nutty flavor of Parmesan elevates the casserole, bringing it to another level of deliciousness.
- Cooked Pasta: Penne or rotini are great choices because they hold sauce well, allowing you to savor every bite of cheesy, saucy goodness.
- Fresh Basil: A final sprinkle of fresh chopped basil adds a burst of color and a pop of fresh flavor when it’s all said and done.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps bind everything together and enhances the flavors of the casserole.
- Salt and Pepper: Always essential to seasoning your food to perfection!
- Cherry Tomatoes: These add a beautiful touch when placed on top of the casserole. Not only do they look great, but they burst with flavor when bitten into.
Ingredients List:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (preferably Roma or vine-ripened)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Casserole?
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven is essential for baking the casserole to perfection!
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, red onion, garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, cooked pasta, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, and stir once more to ensure all the ingredients are well coated.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite has the perfect combination of ingredients.
Step 5: Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Place halved cherry tomatoes on top of the casserole, arranging them neatly for a beautiful presentation.
Step 7: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 8: Once baked to perfection, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice.
Step 9: Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped basil on top for a bright, fresh touch.
Is Bruschetta Chicken Casserole Good for You?
While this dish is undeniably delicious, it also packs some great health benefits:
- Cooked Chicken: A lean source of protein that helps keep you full and satisfied.
- Diced Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and hydration, tomatoes contribute to the dish’s healthiness.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic also has heart-healthy benefits.
- Pasta: Choose whole-grain pasta for added fiber to keep your digestive system healthy.
Though this casserole does include cheese, which adds some saturated fat, it’s still a balanced dish when enjoyed in moderation. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using lower-fat cheese or reducing the cheese portion.
Tips for Casserole Perfection:
- Make Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for later.
- Reheat Easily: Whether in the microwave or oven, reheating this casserole ensures the cheesy goodness remains just as tasty the second time around.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes when mixing the ingredients.
- Pair it Right: Serve with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal.
This Bruschetta Chicken Casserole is a crowd favorite that combines all the best flavors into one easy-to-make dish. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or just because you want something comforting, this recipe is sure to be a hit every time. Happy cooking!
