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Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole

Comforting Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole for Cozy Nights

Enjoy a delightful Homestyle Chicken Penne Casserole, combining fresh vegetables and cheesy goodness for a comforting, low-carb meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Quick Meals
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole Base
  • 2 cups Zucchini Provides moisture and volume; may substitute with yellow squash for a different texture.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Adds sweetness and color; use any variety available for a unique taste.
  • 2 cups Spinach Offers a nutrient boost and vibrant color; kale is a hearty substitute if desired.
  • 1 cup Onion Enhances the flavor base; swap with shallots for a milder impact.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adds aromatic essence; fresh garlic is best, but 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder works in a pinch.
For the Creamy Texture
  • 1 cup Cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar) Provides creaminess and binds ingredients; vegan cheese can also work wonderfully here.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Aids in sautéing ingredients; for a twist, you can use avocado oil instead.
For Flavor Infusion
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Herbs (e.g., Italian seasoning) Infuses flavor and aroma; fresh herbs provide a vibrant boost if you have them on hand.

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up for about 1-2 minutes until it shimmers.
  2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the hot olive oil. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Incorporate the diced zucchini, bell peppers, and chopped spinach into the pot, cooking for approximately 5 minutes until the vegetables are just beginning to soften.
  4. Stir in your choice of dried herbs and sprinkle in the cheese, mixing everything well until the cheese melts slightly.
  5. Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Set it to manual high pressure and cook for 5 minutes.
  6. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick-release of the pressure and allow the steam to escape.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cut all vegetables evenly for uniform cooking. Avoid cooking the veggies too long to maintain their crunch. For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or fresh herbs.

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