Bruschetta Chicken Casserole

Bruschetta Chicken Casserole is a fresh, flavorful, and low-carb dinner option that brings the classic Italian appetizer into a warm, bubbly, cheesy casserole dish. Juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, garlic, and balsamic vinegar come together under a layer of melted mozzarella, then finished with fresh basil for a bright and herby touch. It’s a simple and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A fresh twist on a classic Italian favorite

• Low-carb and gluten-free

• Easy weeknight dinner with minimal prep

• Ready in about 30 minutes

• Made with wholesome, real-food ingredients

• Bursting with bold, herby, and garlicky flavors

• Melty mozzarella makes it irresistibly cheesy

• Customizable with your favorite add-ins

• Works well for meal prep

• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken breasts or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
6 ripe Roma tomatoes, chopped and lightly salted
3 garlic cloves, crushed or chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons high-quality balsamic vinegar
Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste (about ¼ teaspoon each)
A small handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
Cooking spray

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease or spray an 8×8-inch baking dish.

2. Cook Chicken:
   In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden and nearly cooked through, stirring occasionally.

3. Assemble Casserole:
   Transfer the chicken to the greased baking dish. Top with chopped tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.

4. Add Cheese:
   Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

5. Bake:
   Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.

6. Rest and Garnish:
   Remove from oven, cover, and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil just before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more texture and nutrition.

• Spicy kick: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes before baking.

• Different cheese: Use provolone, parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

• Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative.

• Add grains: Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or orzo for a more filling meal.

• Bread topping: Add a few seasoned breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish (not low-carb).

• Grilled version: Grill the chicken first for a smoky flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This casserole is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of Roma?

Yes, halved cherry tomatoes work well and bring a slight sweetness to the dish.

What’s the best chicken to use for this recipe?

Chicken breasts or tenders work best. You can also use boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier texture.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything (except the cheese), cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, top with cheese and cook as directed.

Can I make this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbs. Just make sure your balsamic vinegar and mozzarella are keto-compliant.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

It’s best made fresh, but you can freeze the unbaked version and cook later for convenience.

Can I add pasta to the casserole?

Absolutely. Stir in cooked pasta before baking for a heartier meal.

What’s a good side dish with this casserole?

Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and ensure your other ingredients are dairy-free.

Can I use store-bought bruschetta topping?

Yes, but fresh tomatoes give a better texture and flavor. Drain excess liquid if using jarred bruschetta.

What’s the purpose of letting it rest before serving?

Resting allows the flavors to settle and prevents the cheese from sliding off when serving.

Conclusion

Bruschetta Chicken Casserole is an easy, wholesome, and flavorful dinner that transforms your favorite appetizer into a bubbling, cheesy main dish. With minimal prep and vibrant Mediterranean flavors, it’s a perfect weeknight go-to you’ll want to make again and again. Serve it fresh out of the oven with a sprinkle of basil and enjoy the delicious simplicity.