Go Back
Casseroles have long held a special place in the hearts and kitchens of home cooks everywhere. They represent comfort food at its finest, combining hearty ingredients into a single dish that is both satisfying and convenient. Among the myriad of casserole options, the Zesty Chicken & Cornbread Casserole stands out with its vibrant flavors and delightful textures. This dish not only brings together the comforting elements of creamy chicken and sweet cornbread but also adds a zesty twist that elevates it to a new level of deliciousness.

Zesty Chicken & Cornbread Casserole

Discover the heartwarming recipe for Zesty Chicken & Cornbread Casserole, a delightful comfort food that combines tender shredded chicken, sweet corn, creamy sauce, and a fluffy cornbread topping. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or busy weeknights, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With a zesty twist from spices and sautéed vegetables, this casserole transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained

1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix (plus additional ingredients as per package instructions)

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and the peppers soften. Stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue to cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to bloom, then remove from heat.

      Combine Chicken and Corn: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, drained sweet corn, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined and creamy.

        Prepare the Cornbread Batter: In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions. This usually involves adding water, eggs, or milk as directed.

          Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the chicken and corn mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Carefully pour the cornbread batter over the top, gently spreading it to cover the chicken mixture completely.

            Top with Cheese: Sprinkle any remaining shredded cheddar cheese generously over the cornbread batter to create a deliciously cheesy topping.

              Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                    - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the casserole directly from the baking dish, or portion it onto individual plates. Consider adding a lime wedge on the side for a zesty kick!