Description

If you love cozy, cheesy dinners but still want something balanced and protein-packed, this Cheesy Chicken Caprese Casserole is about to become your new favorite. It brings together tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, basil, and plenty of melty cheese in one easy bake. It’s comforting, colorful, and perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or sharing with family. Bonus: it’s naturally low carb and gluten-free.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

1½ lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tsp Italian seasoning
½–1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
3 tbsp tomato paste
2 cans (14–15 oz each) diced tomatoes, drained slightly
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Veggie Bulk (Low-Carb Boost)

3 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or thawed & squeezed dry)
2 cups chopped kale or spinach

Cheese & Toppings

¾ cup grated parmesan
2 cups shredded mozzarella, divided
8–10 oz fresh mozzarella pearls or chunks
1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Preheat Oven
Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Cook onion with a pinch of salt for 4–5 minutes until soft. Add bell pepper and cook 3 more minutes. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
Build Flavor
Add tomato paste, Italian seasoning, pepper, and chili flakes. Cook 1 minute, stirring. Add diced tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Simmer 8–10 minutes until thickened.
Combine Filling
Stir in chicken, cauliflower rice, and greens. Cook 2–3 minutes until greens wilt slightly. Remove from heat.
Add First Cheese Layer
Mix in parmesan and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Stir until melty and combined.
Assemble
Transfer mixture to baking dish. Top with remaining shredded mozzarella, mozzarella pearls, and cherry tomatoes.
Bake
Bake 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly with golden spots on top. Rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle fresh basil over the top.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Drain or squeeze cauliflower rice so the casserole isn’t watery.
Add cheese off heat when mixing into the filling to keep it smooth.
Want extra browning? Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (have an adult watch closely).
Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.