This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a cozy dish filled with tender chicken and zucchini, all topped with cheesy goodness. It’s a perfect dish for busy days and family dinners!
Honestly, I love how it’s a one-pan wonder. You just mix everything, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. It’s like having a warm hug in a bowl! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are perfect for this dish as they add moisture and a slight crunch. If zucchinis are unavailable, yellow squash works well as a substitute, too!
Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for a quick option, but leftover grilled chicken is excellent, too. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to swap in cooked beans or lentils for protein.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese makes the casserole nicely gooey and flavorful. Mozzarella is another great choice if you prefer something milder. For dairy-free options, try vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Sour Cream: This gives the dish creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt instead.
Onion and Garlic: These ingredients add great flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can use onion powder and garlic powder as substitutes.
How Can I Get The Best Flavor from My Zucchini?
Cooking zucchini properly is key to avoiding a watery casserole. To enhance flavor and texture, here’s what you can do:
- Slice the zucchini thinly for even cooking.
- Cook in the skillet briefly to soften but don’t overdo it. Aim for just 5 minutes to keep it from becoming mushy.
- Always season with salt early; it helps draw out moisture and enhance the flavor.
With these tips, your zucchini will add just the right touch to the casserole!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in just around 45-50 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, you can get everything else ready!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become fragrant and translucent. This will make your kitchen smell lovely!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchinis to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the zucchini is slightly softened. Don’t forget to season the mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to add flavor!
4. Mix Everything Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with the sautéed zucchini mixture. Add sour cream, mayonnaise (if you’re using it), and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. This will create a creamy filling!
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish and spread it evenly. This ensures each bite has all that wonderful flavor!
6. Add More Cheese:
Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. This will help create a delicious, bubbly crust when baked!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Let It Cool:
Once it’s done baking, carefully take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This waiting time makes it easier to serve!
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole!
Enjoy your comforting and delicious Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole!
FAQ About Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Zucchini?
Fresh zucchini is best for this recipe as it retains its texture while cooking. If using frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and drain the excess moisture before adding it to the casserole to avoid a soggy dish.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté harder vegetables like bell peppers along with the onions for even cooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Casserole?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by replacing the chicken with cooked lentils, beans, or an assortment of your favorite vegetables. Just adjust the cooking time for any additional veggies you decide to include.
