Caprese Chicken Casserole
Caprese Chicken Casserole (Cheesy, Easy & Ready in 30 Minutes)
If you’re craving a quick, cheesy, and flavor-packed dinner, this Caprese Chicken Casserole is exactly what you need. Inspired by classic Italian Caprese flavors, this comforting baked dish combines juicy chicken, melty mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil pesto all baked together into one irresistible casserole.
Perfect for busy weeknights, low-carb lifestyles, or family dinners, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal prep. Everything comes together in just one dish and bakes in under 30 minutes, making it a reliable go-to when time is tight but you still want something homemade and satisfying.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting a casual dinner, this Caprese Chicken Casserole checks all the boxes: easy, creamy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing especially if you also enjoy Mediterranean-inspired favorites like Greek Chicken Gyros.
Why You’ll Love This Caprese Chicken Casserole
- Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in just 30 minutes
- One-Dish Meal: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Naturally low in carbs
- Family-Approved: Creamy, cheesy, and comforting
- Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully the next day
This casserole is proof that simple ingredients can create restaurant-worthy results at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Caprese Chicken Casserole
- Chicken: Cooked, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. Shredding keeps the texture tender and juicy.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Add freshness and natural sweetness. Halve them for even baking.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Melts beautifully for that signature Caprese creaminess.
- Basil Pesto: The star ingredient that brings herby, garlicky depth.
- Mayonnaise: Creates a rich, creamy base that binds everything together.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and golden baked topping.
- Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the flavors adjust to taste.
Caprese Chicken Casserole
Notes
- 1 lb cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch pieces
- ¼ cup basil pesto
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and spread it evenly in the baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix basil pesto, mayonnaise, half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Stir the pesto mixture into the chicken until fully coated. Top evenly with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella pieces.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top and bake for 20–22 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes, then serve warm and enjoy!
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Saves time and adds flavor
- Fresh Mozzarella Matters: It melts creamier than pre-shredded
- Let It Rest: Sitting for 5 minutes thickens the casserole
- Don’t Overbake: Keeps the chicken juicy and tender
- Add Veggies: Spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil
- Extra Cheesy: Add shredded provolone or fontina
- Protein Swap: Use shredded turkey or cooked chicken thighs
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option and works perfectly in this recipe.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Why does the casserole release liquid?
Cherry tomatoes naturally release juice while baking. Letting the dish rest helps absorb excess moisture.
Can I freeze this casserole?
You can, but the texture may change slightly. If freezing, wrap tightly and add fresh cheese when reheating.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and suitable for keto-style diets.
Conclusion
This Caprese Chicken Casserole is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—quick, creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh Italian-inspired flavor. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole delivers comfort and convenience in every bite.
