Chicken Pasta Casserole with Corn and Zucchini: A Comforting Delight
A comforting and delightful chicken pasta casserole packed with corn, zucchini, and spinach, all bound together in a creamy sauce and topped with melted cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a potluck gathering.
Equipment
- large skillet
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Nonstick cooking spray
- spatula
Ingredients
- ¼ cup butter
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 zucchini, diced into small pieces
- 1 ½ cups frozen corn
- 1-2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped or torn
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions and drain. Prepare chicken by cooking and shredding 3 boneless, skinless breasts or using rotisserie chicken.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add flour and stir for 1 minute.
- Whisk in chicken broth, milk, salt, pepper, garlic salt, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly to ensure the sauce is smooth.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
- Stir in cooked pasta, ½ cup mozzarella, chicken, diced zucchini, corn, and spinach.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Notes
- Fresh thyme can be substituted with ½ teaspoon dried thyme. Chicken can be pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken. Spinach should be chopped or torn into bite-sized pieces. Zucchini should be diced into small pieces. Dish is suitable for leftovers.
Other Details
- Oven Temperature: 350°F. Baking Time: 20-25 minutes.
Notes
This casserole is delicious served with Texas Roadhouse Rolls, Brussels Sprouts, Fruit Salad, Honey Glazed Carrots, or Oven Roasted Green Beans.