Hearty Chicken & Pasta Casserole with Mixed Vegetables - loaded with flavor, perfect for family dinners. #chickenpasta #vegetablecasserole #dinnertips #recipeideas
- Whole wheat pasta (500g) - Opt for healthier options to attract more health-conscious customers
- Mixed vegetables (500g): Include carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli – Ensure a variety of colors for visual appeal and nutritional benefits
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons) - Use heart-healthy oils for better SEO
- Garlic cloves (4), minced - Minced garlic adds depth to the flavor
- Onion (1 large), chopped - A staple in many recipes, onions provide excellent flavor
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh herbs (optional): Rosemary and thyme enhance the dish’s aroma and flavor – Herbs can be used for a natural boost
- Vegetable broth (500ml) - Use low-sodium options if needed; this provides moisture and enhances flavor
- Parmesan cheese (50g), grated - Perfect for adding that savory, cheesy finish
- Panko breadcrumbs (20g) - Adds texture to the top layer of the casserole
- Mozzarella cheese (100g), sliced or shredded - A great melter that adds moisture and a gooey texture
SEO-friendly tips:
- Include keywords like "whole wheat pasta," "mixed vegetables," "heart-healthy oils," and "mozzarella" to improve search engine visibility.
- Mention "garlic," "onion," and "herbs" as they are commonly searched ingredients for casseroles.
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### Chicken and Pasta Casserole with Mixed Vegetables - A Delicious Recipe
Chicken and pasta casseroles are perfect comfort food that can be easily made with a few simple steps and ingredients. This recipe includes a variety of mixed vegetables, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Below are the detailed steps to create this dish, along with SEO-friendly formatting for easy navigation.
#### **Ingredients:**
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
#### **Instructions:**
**Step 1: Preheat Your Oven**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the dish will cook evenly and bake to perfection.
**Step 2: Cook the Pasta**
Boil a large pot of water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
**Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables and Chicken**
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 2 minutes until softened. Add the chicken pieces, cooking until they are lightly browned on all sides.
**Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients to the Skillet**
Add the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and frozen corn kernels to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
**Step 5: Mix in Sauce and Spices**
Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet along with dried basil and oregano. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
#### **Assembly and Baking**
- Transfer the cooked pasta directly into a large baking dish.
- Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the mixture.
**Step 6: Bake in the Oven**
Cover the dish with aluminum foil, place it in your preheated oven, and bake for approximately 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil to let the cheese melt and become golden brown. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
**Step 7: Serve Hot**
Once done, carefully remove from the oven and allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
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### Keywords for SEO Optimization:
- Chicken and pasta casserole
- Mixed vegetable recipes
- Easy chicken casserole recipe
- Comfort food recipes
- Homemade casserole dish
By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious chicken and pasta casserole with mixed vegetables. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors and nutrients, making it perfect for any occasion!