This tasty baked chicken and zucchini casserole is simple to make and full of flavor. It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese—a comforting dish everyone will love!
Honestly, this casserole is my go-to for busy nights. Just throw everything together and let the oven do the work. It’s so good, I sometimes have to hide the leftovers! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you prefer a lighter option, shredded turkey works well too.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and texture. If you can’t find it, yellow squash or even eggplant can be good substitutes.
Cheese: Mozzarella for stretchy goodness is a must! For more flavor, consider using provolone or a mix of cheeses. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese alternatives.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both add creaminess. I typically use Greek yogurt for its tangy taste, but if you need a dairy-free option, try almond or coconut yogurt.
Mayonnaise: This adds richness, but you can leave it out or use avocado or a vegan mayo if you want a healthier twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Is Not Watery?
One common issue with zucchini is its high water content. To avoid a watery casserole, try this tip:
- Before slicing, sprinkle salt on the zucchini slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes. Then, pat them dry with paper towels. This draws out extra moisture.
- Place the zucchini in the dish quickly after patting them dry to keep them from soaking up moisture again.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing onions and garlic is key for building flavor. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start with a medium heat to prevent burning.
- Add the oil or butter first, then the onions. Stir occasionally.
- Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
Keep an eye on the garlic, as it can burn easily! This adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to your casserole.
Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- Optional: 1/4 cup bread crumbs or crushed crackers for topping
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then it bakes for 25-30 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before it’s ready to serve. It’s a perfect quick dinner for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a casserole dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. This helps prevent sticking!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, take a skillet and heat up the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until it’s nice and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing.
3. Mix It All Up:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, the sautéed onions and garlic, the sliced zucchini, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined and coated!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Now, transfer that tasty mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Make sure every bite’s going to be flavorful!
5. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top for that delicious cheesy crust. If you want an extra crunchy topping, feel free to add the bread crumbs or crushed crackers at this stage.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the zucchini is tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. Yum!
7. Let It Rest:
When it’s ready, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps everything settle and makes serving easier.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if you like, then dig in and enjoy your delicious easy baked chicken and zucchini casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting. Once thawed, it’s best to cook it first, then shred or dice for the casserole.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a healthier twist, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise and use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli, to increase the nutritional value.
What Should I Serve with This Casserole?
This baked chicken and zucchini casserole is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. If you want something heartier, serve it with brown rice or whole grain bread.
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 microwave or oven until heated through. If it seems dry, add a splash of broth or a bit more cheese before reheating!
