This chicken zucchini casserole is a warm and hearty dish packed with tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and gooey cheese. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to whip up any night of the week!
Honestly, I love how this casserole uses veggies, so I can pretend I’m being healthy while enjoying cheesy goodness. It’s like a hug in a dish! 🥰
Making this is a breeze—just mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and you’re set! It’s perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This veggie is the star of the dish, adding moisture and nutrition. If zucchini isn’t in season, you can swap it for yellow squash or even chopped bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
Chicken: I often use rotisserie chicken to save time, but any cooked chicken works well. If you need a substitute, cooked turkey or even canned chicken could fit nicely if you’re in a pinch.
Cheese: Cheddar is great for its sharpness, but you can use mozzarella for a milder flavor. A mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack can add fun texture too! Or go dairy-free with a plant-based cheese substitute.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess, but you can replace it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If you’re avoiding dairy, look for non-dairy sour cream alternatives.
Mayonnaise: It helps bind ingredients together and adds richness. If you’re not a mayo fan, you can use plain yogurt instead. That way, you still get creaminess without the flavor of mayo!
How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right?
The key to perfect zucchini in this casserole is to not overcook it. You want it tender, yet still holding some shape. Here’s how:
- Make sure to slice the zucchini evenly for uniform cooking.
- If you’re concerned about excess moisture, sprinkle some salt on the sliced zucchini and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out water; just pat dry before adding to your mix!
- Don’t skip the sautéing step for onions and garlic, as it enhances the overall flavor.
By following these tips, your zucchini will be perfectly cooked and not mushy! Enjoy making this casserole a staple in your home.
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and then 25-30 minutes to bake. In just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
First up, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating, grab a medium baking dish and lightly grease it with some oil or butter to prevent sticking later on.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat up the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. After that, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it starts smelling wonderful. Once that’s done, remove it from the heat and set aside.
3. Mixing It All Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your sautéed onions and garlic with the cooked chicken, sliced zucchini, sour cream, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended together. The mixture should look hearty and full of flavors!
4. Adding Cheese:
Now, stir in half of your shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. This will give your casserole that cheesy goodness throughout!
5. Transferring to the Baking Dish:
Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps ensure that every bite is delicious!
6. Topping It Off:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the casserole for that golden and cheesy crust. If you like a little crunch, you can sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top.
7. Baking the Casserole:
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
8. Serving Time!
When it’s done baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. This will help it set a little and make serving easier. Then, scoop out portions, serve, and enjoy this comforting dish!
Enjoy your comforting and easy chicken zucchini casserole! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
While fresh zucchini is preferred for texture, you can use frozen zucchini if necessary. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the mix to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
To make a low-carb version, substitute the zucchini with cauliflower rice or use more veggies like bell peppers and spinach. You can also skip the breadcrumbs to keep it keto-friendly!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if it’s coming straight from the fridge!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal!
