Name: Healthy Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491603H6M2S
Total time: PT-491603H6M2S
Cuisine: Southwestern / Mexican‑Inspired
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or poached); 1 1/2 cups salsa verde (jarred or homemade); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or low‑fat sour cream; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 medium zucchini, chopped (optional); 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend or mozzarella; Fresh cilantro and lime wedges (for serving)

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Healthy Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole is a lightened-up, flavor-packed meal that layers juicy shredded chicken, salsa verde, tender veggies, and melty cheese into one comforting dish. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and perfect for busy weeknights when I want something nourishing and satisfying without the extra fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this casserole brings bold flavor and creamy texture without relying on heavy ingredients. The salsa verde adds just the right amount of tang and spice, while lean chicken and veggies make it hearty but wholesome. It’s naturally gluten-free, family-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, everything comes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Healthy Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or poached)
Salsa verde (jarred or homemade)
Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream
Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Zucchini, chopped (optional)
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Ground cumin
Salt and pepper
Shredded Mexican cheese or mozzarella
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, I combine the shredded chicken, salsa verde, Greek yogurt, black beans, corn, zucchini, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
I mix everything until well combined, then spread it evenly into the baking dish.
I sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and cover with foil.
I bake for 20–25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
I let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes 15 minutes to prep and about 30–35 minutes to bake, so it’s ready in under an hour.

Variations

I swap black beans for pinto or white beans depending on what I have.
For extra veggies, I’ve added spinach or chopped bell peppers.
I use low-fat cream cheese instead of Greek yogurt for a richer feel with still fewer calories.
I top it with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy finish, or serve it with a side of brown rice.
For a dairy-free version, I use a plant-based yogurt and dairy-free cheese.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. It also freezes well—I portion it out and freeze for up to 2 months. Healthy Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken?

No, the chicken should be cooked beforehand. I usually use rotisserie or bake and shred the chicken in advance.

Is salsa verde spicy?

Most store-bought versions are mild to medium. I always taste it first and choose one that fits my heat preference.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. I assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, I bake as directed.

What should I serve with it?

I usually serve it with a side of rice, a green salad, or avocado slices. It’s also great inside tortillas for quick tacos.

Can I make it low-carb?

Yes. I skip the beans and corn and double up on the zucchini or add cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.

Conclusion

Healthy Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole is one of my go-to dishes when I want something fast, flavorful, and nutritious. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of bold Southwestern flavor—without being heavy. Whether I’m feeding the family or prepping meals for the week, this casserole always makes dinnertime easy and delicious.