Go Back
In the realm of comforting home-cooked meals, few dishes rival the satisfaction of a well-crafted casserole. The Zesty Chicken & Cornbread Casserole not only exemplifies this comfort but also brings a delightful twist to the traditional casserole experience. This dish marries the savory flavors of tender shredded chicken with the sweetness of corn, all enveloped in a light and fluffy cornbread topping. Ideal for family gatherings, potluck events, or even a simple weeknight dinner, the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of this casserole make it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Zesty Chicken & Cornbread Casserole

Savor the warmth and comfort of Zesty Chicken & Cornbread Casserole, a delightful twist on the classic dish that brings together tender shredded chicken and sweet corn under a golden cornbread topping. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this easy-to-make recipe combines savory and creamy flavors with a zesty kick. Discover how to create this crowd-pleaser with fresh ingredients and simple steps. It’s sure to become a new favorite at your table!
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 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 cumin

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

    Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute and remove from heat.

      Mix Chicken and Corn: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked vegetables, sweet corn, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.

        Prepare Cornbread Batter: In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions.

          Assemble Casserole: Spread the chicken and corn mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter on top, spreading it gently to cover the entire surface.

            Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the cornbread batter for an extra cheesy finish.

              Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the cornbread layer.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

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