This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a wholesome dish packed with tender chicken and fresh zucchini. It’s all baked together with cheese for a gooey, delicious meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This veggie is the star! Use medium-sized zucchinis for the best flavor and texture. If zucchini isn’t available, try yellow squash or eggplant as a substitute.
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor. If you have leftover grilled chicken, that works just as well. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
Cheeses: Mozzarella adds creaminess, while Parmesan gives a nice savory bite. If you’re out of mozzarella, feel free to use cheddar or Monterey Jack. For a dairy-free version, try a plant-based cheese.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Sour cream gives richness, but Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider a dairy-free yogurt. You can skip the mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter dish.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Zucchini?
Cooking zucchini just right is important to avoid mushy texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice zucchini into thin rounds for even cooking. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick.
- Sauté in a skillet on medium heat. Cooking it with onions and garlic creates a flavor-packed base.
- Cook until slightly tender but still firm (about 5-7 minutes). You want it to hold its shape!
Letting it cook too long will make it mushy. Remember, it will bake further in the oven!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie or grilled chicken works well)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of baking time. So, you can have a delicious, warm casserole ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sautĂ© for about 3-4 minutes until it’s translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Yum!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Now, toss in the sliced zucchini. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is slightly softened but still has a bit of crunch. Season it with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Set this mix aside.
4. Mix the Casserole Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, sautéed zucchini mixture, sour cream or Greek yogurt, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Give it a good stir to mix everything well, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
5. Layer It in a Dish:
Transfer the delicious mixture into a greased baking dish (about 9×9 inches works great). Spread it out evenly.
6. Add the Cheese Topping:
Now sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of your casserole. Cheese makes everything better!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the casserole into the oven and bake it uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
8. Let It Rest:
After taking it out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a little and makes it easier to serve.
9. Serve and Garnish:
If you’d like, garnish your casserole with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm and enjoy a hearty, comforting dish!
Enjoy this comforting and simple chicken zucchini casserole as a healthy weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but it’s best to thaw and drain it first to remove excess moisture. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming watery. You can thaw zucchini by placing it in the fridge overnight or quickly in the microwave.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the mozzarella and Parmesan. Just be sure to choose a brand that melts well!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Zucchini Casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or a light vegetable dish for a more balanced dinner. Enjoy!
