Is there anything better than a warm, cheesy casserole fresh out of the oven? I think not! One of my all-time favorites is this Bruschetta Chicken Casserole. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also super easy to make and perfect for those busy weeknights. Plus, it brings back fond memories of summer barbecues and gatherings with friends when we’d whip up bruschetta, and now we get to enjoy those flavors in a cozy casserole form.
I love how this dish captures the essence of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and gooey cheese. Every time I make it, it reminds me of the warmth of Italian kitchens, filled with the smells of home-cooked meals. And let me tell you, nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling a bubbling casserole out of the oven and diving into that delicious cheesy goodness! So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking, my friend!
What’s in Bruschetta Chicken Casserole?
Let’s break down the star-studded cast of ingredients that make this casserole so delightful:
Cooked chicken: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or simply boil and shred your own. This is the protein powerhouse of the dish.
Diced tomatoes: Fresh Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes bring the juicy flavor of summer to your dinner table. If fresh isn’t available, canned diced tomatoes work in a pinch!
Red onion: A bit of that sweet crunch. Seriously, red onions add a pop of color and flavor that you’ll absolutely love!
Garlic: Because, honestly, what’s a casserole without garlic? It adds a wonderful aroma to the dish as it bakes.
Dried basil and oregano: Essential herbs that give this dish its Italian flair. Don’t skip them; they play beautifully together.
Mozzarella cheese: The gooey goodness that stretches just right when you dig in. I like to go for whole-milk mozzarella for the creaminess.
Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this sharp, nutty cheese sends your casserole over the top.
Cooked pasta: I recommend penne or rotini for their ability to hold onto the sauce and flavors.
Fresh basil: A lovely garnish to brighten up the finished casserole. Trust me; you don’t want to skip out on this fresh touch.
Olive oil: A drizzle to enhance the flavors and ensure everything where it needs to be.
Salt and pepper: Always an essential to season your food perfectly!
Cherry tomatoes: They look adorable on top and burst with flavor when you bite into them!
Is Bruschetta Chicken Casserole Good for You?
Well, I’d say this casserole has a lot going for it!
Cooked chicken: A great source of lean protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
Diced tomatoes: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, tomatoes add to the healthiness of this dish. Plus, they’re hydrating!
Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic is also awesome for heart health!
Pasta: While it does add carbs, you can opt for whole grain pasta to up the fiber content.
The downside? This casserole is a bit cheesy, so if you’re watching your saturated fat, maybe stick to a smaller portion or use low-fat cheese. And remember, moderation is key!
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)
This recipe serves about 6 hearty portions of deliciousness!
How to Make Bruschetta Chicken Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the soundtrack to all good casseroles!
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 mozzarella cheese. Mix it all together and season with salt and pepper to your liking—taste is everything!
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and stir again to ensure even coverage—it’s worth it, every drop!
4. Transfer this glorious mix into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite gets love.
5. Stacking time! Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese and shower it with Parmesan.
6. Halved cherry tomatoes should be placed artfully on top for garnish. Impressive, right?
7. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and bake it for 25 minutes. Then take it off and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and calling your name!
8. Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes—if you can wait that long!
9. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped basil on top, because we eat with our eyes first!
Tips for Casserole Perfection
– This casserole makes a fantastic meal prep option! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– Reheat your leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through—trust me, it’s just as good the next day.
– If you like a little bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes while mixing everything up!
– Serve it up with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Every time I whip up this Bruschetta Chicken Casserole, I can’t help but feel like I’m throwing a mini dinner party just for my family. If you’re looking for a comfort food winner that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, you must try this recipe. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
