Name: Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups diced rotisserie chicken (or any other cooked chicken); 1 cup uncooked quinoa; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 cups crushed tomatoes; 2 Tbs tomato paste; 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup half and half; 1/4 to 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional); Salt and pepper (to taste); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); 1 cup grape tomatoes (halved); Handful fresh basil (chopped)

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Imagine a dreamy dish that combines the freshness of a Caprese salad with the wholesome heartiness of a casserole. That’s precisely what you get with this Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole—a delightful blend of juicy chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and creamy cheeses, all nestled in a comforting quinoa base. This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, ensuring that every bite is as satisfying as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. Here are a few reasons why it will become a staple in your kitchen:

– **Quick and Easy**: With rotisserie chicken as a base, this casserole comes together in no time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
– **Nutrient-Rich**: Quinoa is a fantastic source of protein, and combined with chicken and fresh tomatoes, this dish is both nourishing and filling.
– **Customizable**: The ingredients can be easily swapped or added to according to your preferences, ensuring you can make it your own every time.
– **Crowd-Pleaser**: Whether you’re serving family or friends, this casserole is sure to impress with its colorful presentation and rich flavors.

Ingredient Checklist

To make your Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

3 cups diced rotisserie chicken, or any other cooked chicken
1 cup uncooked quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups crushed tomatoes
2 Tbs tomato paste
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup half and half
1/4 to 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
Handful fresh basil, chopped

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you begin, make sure you have the following kitchen gear:

Large casserole dish: For baking the casserole evenly.
Medium saucepan: To cook the quinoa.
Mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of your ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For mixing everything together.

Mastering Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole: How-To

Creating your Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole is a straightforward process. Just follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, which can be bitter. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of uncooked quinoa with 2 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is absorbed.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced rotisserie chicken, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, half and half, and crushed red pepper (if using). Stir until everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper to the mixture according to your taste preferences. Don’t forget to mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will add a lovely depth of flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, then top with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and the halved grape tomatoes. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey finish.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Top with chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor before serving.

Make It Your Way

This Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole is incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas to customize it:

Swap quinoa for brown rice or couscous for a different base.
Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Incorporate different cheeses such as feta or cheddar for a unique twist.
For a bit of crunch, top with breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil before baking.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

Creating the perfect Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Not rinsing quinoa: This step is essential to remove bitterness and ensure a pleasant flavor.
Overcooking the quinoa: Be sure to follow the cooking time to achieve fluffy quinoa.
Skipping seasoning: Proper seasoning brings the dish to life; don’t be shy with salt and pepper!
Not letting it cool: Allow the casserole to rest before serving; this helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Storage Pro Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare given how delicious this dish is), here are some storage tips:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Reader Q&A

Can I use canned chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Canned chicken is a great time-saver and can be used in the same quantity as rotisserie chicken in this recipe.

What can I substitute for half and half?

You can use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream to mimic the richness of half and half. For a lighter version, low-fat milk works too.

Is it necessary to use balsamic vinegar?

While balsamic vinegar adds a lovely depth of flavor, you can omit it or substitute it with red wine vinegar if you prefer.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving to enjoy it fresh.

Next Up in Your Queue

If you loved this Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole, you might want to try these delicious recipes:

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered the art of Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into this delicious, comforting dish. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to impress. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share it with your loved ones or on social media—everyone will want to know how you made such a delightful meal! Enjoy every bite of your Caprese Chicken and Quinoa Casserole, and let the flavors transport you to a sunny Italian summer day.