Embark on a culinary journey with our delectable Chicken Primavera Casserole recipe. Bursting with vibrant vegetables, succulent chicken, and creamy cheeses, this comforting casserole is a celebration of flavor and wholesome goodness. Perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Join us as we explore the art of casserole-making and discover the magic of Chicken Primavera Casserole.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 pound penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken breasts and cook until heated through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add diced red and yellow bell peppers, sliced zucchini, sliced yellow squash, broccoli florets, and sliced carrots. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, cooked penne pasta, heavy cream, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of Chicken Primavera Casserole.
Cook’s Notes:
- For added convenience, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken in this recipe.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Other great options include mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach.
Variations:
- Creamy Alfredo Version: For a richer and creamier casserole, substitute Alfredo sauce for the heavy cream. You can either use store-bought Alfredo sauce or make your own from scratch.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Give this casserole a Tex-Mex flair by adding black beans, corn kernels, diced green chilies, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and serve with salsa and sour cream on the side.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of Chicken Primavera Casserole, you can make a few simple substitutions to reduce the carb content. Replace the penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Use full-fat heavy cream and opt for low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and zucchini. You can also use a combination of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a cheesy topping that’s low in carbs.
Low-Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version of this casserole, follow the same instructions as the keto version but also consider reducing the amount of carrots and using fewer vegetables overall. You can increase the proportion of protein by adding more chicken or incorporating diced ham or cooked bacon. Additionally, you can use a blend of almond flour and grated Parmesan cheese as a topping instead of breadcrumbs to keep the dish low in carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones? A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the skillet.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Primavera Casserole for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use different types of pasta? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape in this recipe, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Q: Can I add herbs or spices for extra flavor? A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the casserole. Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme would be great additions.
Experience the comforting flavors of Chicken Primavera Casserole and delight your senses with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a hearty weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for special occasions, this casserole is a true testament to the joys of home cooking. With its wholesome ingredients, vibrant colors, and creamy texture, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any mealtime. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Chicken Primavera Casserole.
