This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a yummy mix of chicken, zucchini, and cheesy goodness all baked together. It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for a family dinner!
I love how simple this dish is! Just toss everything in a dish, bake, and let the oven do the work. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to add some veggies to your meal! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this dish. If zucchini isn’t available, you could use yellow squash or even thinly sliced eggplant as a substitute. They cook well and take on the flavors nicely!
Cooked Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use grilled chicken breast or even turkey. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu instead.
Cheeses: Cheddar cheese adds a wonderful flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Mozzarella or Monterey Jack work well, too. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based cheese options that melt well.
Sour Cream: I often use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist and extra protein. You can skip it entirely for a lighter version, or opt for a vegan yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Stays Moist?
To keep your chicken zucchini casserole from drying out, be sure to layer it properly. Start with a good amount of the sour cream mixture on the zucchini, and don’t skip the foil cover during the first half of baking to trap steam.
- Cook the onions and garlic in oil until soft—they add flavor and moisture.
- Keep an eye on the casserole while it’s baking; if it looks too dry, cover it again until it’s bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the flavors meld and the moisture distribute evenly.
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This yummy casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll need about 55 minutes before it’s time to dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and properly.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and give it another minute. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Mix the Filling:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise (if you’re using it), Italian seasoning, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Layer the Casserole:
Now it’s time to assemble! Lightly grease a casserole dish. Start by layering half of the sliced zucchini evenly on the bottom. Next, spread half of the chicken mixture over the zucchini. Then add the remaining zucchini slices on top, followed by the rest of the chicken mixture. Finish with a sprinkle of the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven for about 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake it uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbling and golden brown.
6. Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This lets all those delicious flavors settle. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you’d like, and serve warm!
Enjoy your delicious and easy chicken zucchini casserole! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Zucchini?
Fresh zucchini is ideal for this recipe, but if you have frozen zucchini on hand, you can use that too! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein. You can also use lean chicken breast and reduce or omit the mayonnaise. Adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can also boost the nutrition!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time, as it will be starting from a cold state.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help keep it moist during reheating!
