Description
A hearty and comforting casserole made with tender chicken, roasted butternut squash, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese. This dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with savory chicken and a cheesy topping, making it perfect for fall and winter dinners that warm the soul.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
Seasonings and Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the butternut squash.
- Roast the butternut squash: Toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash with olive oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.
- Reduce oven temperature: Lower the oven setting to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix the casserole ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, roasted butternut squash, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Gently fold in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese to integrate the creamy, cheesy flavor throughout the dish.
- Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the mixture into it, spreading evenly. Then, evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a rich cheesy crust.
- Prepare breadcrumb topping: Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until they are evenly coated, then sprinkle this mixture over the cheese topping to add a crispy finish.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
- Rest before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes to set, which makes serving easier and enhances flavors.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time and adds flavor.
- For extra nutrition and a vegetable boost, consider adding chopped spinach or kale into the casserole mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting, Baking
- Cuisine: American