This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a comforting dish packed with tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and melty cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
I love how it all comes together in just one dish—less cleanup for me! Plus, the cheesy goodness makes it a hit with everyone at the table. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are the star here. If you can’t find them, try using yellow squash or even eggplant for a different twist! I enjoy a mix of both zucchinis and yellow squash for added color.
Chicken: Cooked chicken is a must. Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or lentils work well as a substitute.
Cheese: I love the combo of mozzarella and Parmesan. If you want a stronger flavor, try adding cheddar or even feta. Vegan cheese is a great substitute for a dairy-free version!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess to the dish. Greek yogurt can replace both for a healthier option, or use a dairy-free yogurt if needed.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right in the Casserole?
The zucchini can become mushy if it’s overcooked. Here’s a tip: sauté it just until it’s tender. This will maintain some of its texture once it’s baked in the casserole.
- Slice the zucchini into even rounds to ensure uniform cooking.
- Cook it until just soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Always taste and season as you go—add a bit more salt or spices if needed!
Enjoy making your Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole, and feel free to mix it up with my suggestions!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetable Base:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Protein & Dairy:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole should take about 15 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes for baking. So, in about 45 minutes, you’ll have a warm and delicious dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, get your baking dish ready by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until it gets soft. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 30 seconds until you smell that wonderful aroma!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Now, add the sliced zucchinis to your skillet. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re just tender. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning to make them flavorful!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, the sautéed zucchini mixture, the sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix it all together until it’s nicely combined.
5. Spread in the Dish:
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom. It should look colorful and inviting!
6. Add Cheese and Optional Topping:
Top the mixture with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If you want a bit of crunch, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese. This will give your casserole a delightful topping!
7. Bake and Enjoy:
Put the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until it’s bubbling and the cheese on top is golden brown. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing right about now!
8. Final Touches:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil to make it look beautiful.
Now you’re all set to dig in and enjoy your cheesy, creamy Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Fresh Zucchini with Frozen Zucchini?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen zucchini if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole to avoid sogginess.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Calories?
To lighten up this casserole, you can use reduced-fat sour cream and mayonnaise. You could also substitute half of the cheese with a low-fat cheese option, or reduce the amount of cheese used overall.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge covered. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven. If it seems dry, add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back moisture.
