This Italian Chicken Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s loaded with tender chicken, savory vegetables, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a hearty family gathering. With its Italian-inspired ingredients and rich flavors, this casserole is sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
- Cook the chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
- Sauté the vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms (if using), and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the tomatoes and sauce:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and marinara sauce. Add the oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Pour the vegetable and sauce mixture over the chicken in the baking dish. Spread it evenly to cover the chicken. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake the casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with crusty bread, pasta, or a side salad.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Italian Chicken Casserole, perfect for an easy dinner with bold, Italian-inspired flavors!
