Chicken Penne Casserole With Corn And Zucchini
Are you looking for a hearty and healthy meal that is easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further than this chicken penne casserole with corn and zucchini! This dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, and is sure to be a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
To make this delicious casserole, you will need:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 can of corn, drained
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your chicken penne casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook your penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked chicken and drained corn to the skillet and stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, tomato sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine everything.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spoon the ricotta cheese mixture over the top of the pasta and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Health Benefits
This chicken penne casserole is not only delicious, it is also packed with healthy ingredients that provide a range of nutritional benefits. Here are just a few:
- Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.
- Zucchini is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
- Corn is a good source of fiber and antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
- Penne pasta, when made with whole grains, is a good source of fiber and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Ricotta cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, which are important for strong bones and muscle function.
Conclusion
Chicken penne casserole with corn and zucchini is a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a hearty family dinner or a convenient meal prep option, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With its combination of wholesome ingredients and rich flavor, it is the perfect example of how healthy eating can also be delicious.