Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole

Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that marries the freshness of bruschetta with the comfort of a hearty casserole. This recipe stands out by offering a nutritious yet satisfying meal that the whole family will adore. Packed with lean protein, fresh ingredients, and an array of vibrant flavors, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty bruschetta topping creates a dish bursting with flavors and textures. Moreover, it is a healthier alternative to traditional casseroles, featuring wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt, fresh basil, and ripe tomatoes. This casserole not only meets your nutritional needs but also pleases your taste buds.

How to Make Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
½ cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
4 ounces light cream cheese, softened (optional)
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
1.5 lbs ripe Roma tomatoes, finely diced
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped or chiffonaded
2 tablespoons good quality balsamic vinegar
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat and Season Chicken
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs dry and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust develops.
Bake and Shred Chicken
Transfer the skillet (or chicken to a baking dish) to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes, then shred or cube into bite-sized pieces.
Dice the Tomatoes
Wash and finely dice the ripe Roma tomatoes (about ¼ to ½ inch pieces) and place them in a medium mixing bowl.
Mince the Garlic
Peel and mince fresh garlic very finely and add to the bowl with the diced tomatoes.
Chop the Basil
Wash, dry, and finely chop or chiffonade fresh basil leaves. Add the chopped basil to the bowl with the tomatoes and garlic.
Combine and Season Bruschetta
To the tomato, garlic, and basil mixture, add balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently until well combined and set aside.
Prepare the Casserole Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
Create the Creamy Chicken Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, broth, Greek yogurt. Optionally, stir in softened light cream cheese until smooth. Finally, stir in ½ cup of shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese.
Season the Chicken Mixture
Give the chicken mixture a good stir and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Spread the Chicken Base
Transfer the entire chicken mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly across the bottom.
Initial Bake
Place the baking dish containing the chicken base into your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
Add Cheese Topping
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Final Bake
Return the casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Add Bruschetta Topping
Once the casserole is out of the oven, immediately spoon the prepared bruschetta topping generously over the hot, cheesy chicken casserole.
Rest and Garnish
Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for garnish.
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze (Optional)
For an extra layer of gourmet flavor and visual appeal, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the entire casserole before serving.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm as a complete meal, or with a simple green salad, whole-grain pasta, or quinoa.

How to Serve Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole

This Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole is perfect as a standalone meal but can also be complemented with light sides. Pair it with a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or whole-grain bread for a satisfying dinner. For a more filling option, serve it alongside whole-grain pasta or quinoa. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to elevate your dish.

How to Store Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole

To store your leftover Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you’d like to freeze the casserole, ensure it’s well covered to prevent freezer burn and use it within 2-3 months for the best quality.

Tips to Make Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole Perfect

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil makes a significant difference in flavor, so try to use it instead of dried if possible.
Perfect Chicken: Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken to keep it moist. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the perfect doneness.
Customizable Topping: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as olives or roasted peppers, to personalize the bruschetta.

Flavor Variations

This Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. Consider incorporating:

Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for turkey or even cooked ground beef for a unique twist.
Vegetable Add-ins: Mix in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value and add more texture.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese types, such as provolone or feta, for varied flavors.

Pro Tips for Success

One-Pan Wonder: For quicker cleanup, cook everything in a single oven-safe skillet when searing the chicken and preparing the casserole.
Meal Prep: This casserole is great for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake.
Control the Moisture: If using very juicy tomatoes, consider draining excess juice to prevent a watery casserole.

FAQs About Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Cooking from frozen will require extra time and could result in uneven cooking.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with gluten intolerances. Just confirm that the chicken broth and any toppings you use are also gluten-free.

How spicy is this casserole?
This Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole recipe is mild. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or using a spicy cheese for topping. Adjust it to cater to your heat tolerance!

Final Thoughts

The Clean Eats Bruschetta Chicken Casserole is a fabulous dish that combines simplicity with flavors, making it an ideal family meal. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress. With fresh ingredients and simple prep, it’s a healthy choice that everyone will enjoy.