Flavorful Italian Chicken Casserole - Easy & Delicious

Zesty Italian Chicken CasserolePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Zesty Italian Chicken Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory Italian seasonings.

Get Full Recipe: Zesty Italian Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Chicken:
3. • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
   • Add the chicken to the skillet until browned and cooked through about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
5. • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the diced bell peppers and zucchini. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine Ingredients:
7. • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
   • Add the marinara sauce, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
8. Assemble the Casserole:
9. • Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
   • If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
10. Bake:
11. • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
12. Serve:
13. • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
    • Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
    • Serve hot, and enjoy!

Conclusion

Zesty Italian Chicken Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory Italian flavors, this casserole is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal!