Go Back
Hearty Zucchini Cheddar Chicken Noodle Casserole
Arkely

Hearty Zucchini Cheddar Chicken Noodle Casserole

This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, zucchini, and creamy pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The addition of paprika and thyme gives it a delightful depth of flavor, making it ideal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. With just over an hour of total prep and cook time, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 3/4 pound boneless chicken breasts cut into cubes
  • 1 yellow onion chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and black pepper
  • 2 green onions sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to taste
  • 2 cups broth or water
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 pound short cut pasta
  • 2 zucchini or yellow summer squash sliced
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded colby jack or cheddar cheese
  • fresh basil for serving

Method
 

Main Method
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. 2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Work through this step deliberately rather than rushing it, because this is where the texture and balance of the recipe start to take shape. Keep the listed quantities and order of operations unchanged, and have the next ingredients ready before you move on.
  2. Add the onion, the chicken, and season with salt and pepper. Add 2 tablespoons of butter, the green onions, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne, and cook until golden and toasted, 2-3 minutes.3. Add the broth and milk. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Add the pasta and zucchini, and season with salt and pepper. Stir frequently until the pasta is al dente and the broth has been absorbed, about 8 minutes. 4.
  3. Stir in the parmesan and 1 cup of shredded cheese. If needed, transfer everything to an oven-safe casserole dish. Scatter the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole. 5. Bake 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and beginning to brown. Serve warm, with additional thyme and fresh basil.