Caprese chicken casserole combines the classic flavors of Caprese salad—ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella—with tender chicken and a savory baked casserole base. This easy and flavorful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a centerpiece for a casual gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this casserole a breeze to whip up.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offers a bright, Italian-inspired taste.
- Family-Friendly: A comforting yet elegant dish that’s sure to please everyone.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main dish with a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Cherry or grape tomatoes (halved)
- Fresh mozzarella (sliced or shredded)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Balsamic glaze or vinegar
- Garlic (minced)
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
- Optional: Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs for a golden crust
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in the baking dish and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a small bowl, toss the halved tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Distribute the tomato mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Add slices of fresh mozzarella on top of the chicken and tomatoes.
- If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs over the mozzarella for a crispy topping.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or zoodles for a keto-friendly meal.
- Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, zucchini slices, or roasted red peppers for extra veggies.
- Marinated Chicken: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian herbs for deeper flavor.
- Pasta Bake: Layer cooked pasta under the chicken for a complete casserole meal.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the fully cooked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay tender during baking.
2. What type of tomatoes should I use?
Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal, but sliced Roma tomatoes also work.
3. Can I substitute fresh mozzarella with shredded mozzarella?
Yes, shredded mozzarella can be used, but fresh mozzarella provides a creamier texture.
4. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a lactose-free version.
5. How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Marinate the chicken beforehand or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
6. What can I serve with Caprese chicken casserole?
Pair it with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.
7. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
8. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.
9. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Avoid overbaking and ensure the chicken is covered in the tomato and cheese mixture.
10. Can I skip the balsamic glaze?
The balsamic glaze adds a sweet tangy flavor, but you can skip it or use a drizzle of olive oil instead.
Conclusion
Caprese chicken casserole is a delightful combination of fresh and hearty flavors that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. With its creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Serve it with your favorite side and watch it become a household favorite!
Print
Caprese Chicken Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
A fresh and flavorful casserole featuring juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil. This Caprese-inspired dish is easy to make and perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or bowtie works best)
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.- Sauté garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, marinara sauce, and the sautéed garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add balsamic glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the casserole just before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Notes
For a lower-carb version, swap the pasta for cooked spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice.- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add 1/2 cup of ricotta or cream cheese to the mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.