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This Caprese Chicken Casserole layers tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a garlic-basil sauce over pasta or rice, baked until bubbly and golden. It’s cozy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing—everything you want in a baked dish.
Why We Love This Caprese Chicken Casserole
All the fresh flavors of a Caprese salad, baked into a comforting casserole. Here’s why it’s a go-to:
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead and bake later.
- One-Dish Dinner: Protein, veggies, and carbs all in one.
- Cheesy and Bubbly: That golden mozzarella top is irresistible.
- Crowd Favorite: Great for potlucks or family dinners.
- Customizable: Add veggies or grains to make it your own.
Key Ingredients
Scroll to the recipe card for full amounts. Here’s the base:
- Cooked Chicken – Chopped or shredded.
- Pasta or Rice – Your base layer.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Halved or whole.
- Mozzarella – Fresh slices or shredded.
- Garlic + Olive Oil – For a quick sautéed sauce.
- Fresh Basil – Stirred in and on top.
- Balsamic Glaze – Drizzled before serving.
How to Make Caprese Chicken Casserole
A few easy steps, then let the oven do the work:
- Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 casserole dish.
- Sauté Base Flavor: In a skillet, cook garlic in olive oil. Add tomatoes and cook until softened.
- Assemble: In the casserole dish, combine pasta or rice, chicken, sautéed tomato mixture, and most of the basil. Toss to mix.
- Top and Bake: Add mozzarella on top. Cover and bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 5–10 more until bubbly and golden.
- Finish: Drizzle with balsamic glaze and scatter extra basil. Serve warm.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
- Use Leftovers: Great for using cooked chicken or rotisserie.
- Add Veggies: Try spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Grain Swap: Use quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a twist.
- Cheese Boost: Add a little Parmesan for extra richness.
What to Serve With Caprese Chicken Casserole
Bread Sides
Serve with garlic knots or warm focaccia.
Green Veggies
Try roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or a crisp salad.
Simple Drinks
Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or a light red wine.
Caprese Chicken Casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Servings: 6
This Caprese Chicken Casserole brings together tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, basil, and creamy mozzarella in a cozy baked dish. It’s easy to prep, feeds a crowd, and delivers classic Caprese flavors in warm, bubbly form.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
- 3 cups cooked pasta or rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or fresh slices
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- In the casserole dish, combine cooked pasta or rice, chicken, tomato mixture, and most of the basil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
- Top with mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for 5–10 more minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with remaining basil before serving.
Notes
- Low-Carb Swap: Use cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance.
- Add Veggies: Stir in chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
