Flavorful Italian Chicken Casserole: Easy & Delicious

Zesty Italian Chicken CasserolePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Hello, food enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that brings together the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine in a comforting casserole: Zesty Italian Chicken Casserole. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. The combination of tender chicken, zesty Italian seasoning, and gooey cheese creates a delicious and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe!

>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Zesty Italian Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 packet of zesty Italian seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the red bell pepper and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, zesty Italian seasoning mix, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread the cooked pasta evenly. Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy your zesty Italian chicken casserole!

Conclusion:

This Zesty Italian Chicken Casserole is a perfect blend of vibrant and savory flavors that will delight your taste buds. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, zesty seasoning, and creamy cheese makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. I hope you enjoy making and eating this recipe as much as I do!

FAQ:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the casserole.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and follow the baking instructions.

Q: Can I freeze Zesty Italian Chicken Casserole? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of chicken breasts? A: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or even turkey.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier? A: To add more heat, you can include more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the chicken mixture. You can also use a spicy Italian seasoning mix.

Enjoy your cooking, and feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further tips! 😊