Today, I have a delightful recipe to share with you all - Chicken Butternut Squash Casserole with Black Beans. This hearty and wholesome dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal.
Chicken Butternut Squash Casserole with Black Beans
Let’s begin by gathering all the ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Now that we have everything we need, let’s get started on this delicious casserole!
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Next, add the cubed butternut squash to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash becomes slightly tender.
4. Now, it’s time to add the shredded chicken, black beans, corn kernels, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (optional), salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix, allowing the flavors to blend together.
5. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, covering the entire surface.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and started to turn golden brown.
7. Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it hot and enjoy every delicious bite!
This Chicken Butternut Squash Casserole with Black Beans is not only incredibly tasty but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lean chicken, fiber-rich black beans, and vitamin-packed butternut squash makes it a wholesome and filling meal option.
Preparation time for this casserole is relatively quick and easy, taking around 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s the perfect recipe for those busy weeknights when you want to prepare a healthy and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Servings: 4-6
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g
Tips:
- You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs:
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Can I use other types of cheese? Definitely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses to suit your taste.
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Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken will save you even more time in the kitchen.
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Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Of course! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or your preferred meat substitute.
This Chicken Butternut Squash Casserole with Black Beans is a versatile and delicious dish that will please both family and friends. It’s an excellent option for those following a gluten-free or vegan diet as well. So, why wait? Give this recipe a try and let your taste buds thank you for the amazing flavors!
