This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is perfect for a cozy dinner! It’s packed with chicken, fresh zucchini, and creamy cheese, all baked together to create a warm and hearty dish.
I love how simple this recipe is! Just toss the ingredients together, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the delicious smells as it cooks. Plus, it’s a tasty way to sneak in some veggies! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh zucchinis add a lovely texture. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash works as a tasty alternative.
Chicken: I use shredded rotisserie chicken for ease, but leftover grilled chicken or any cooked chicken you have will work perfectly.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that gooey texture. Feel free to swap it with cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer a different flavor.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: These ingredients keep the casserole creamy. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for both, adding protein!
Breadcrumbs: They add crunch on top. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, use crushed crackers, or skip them altogether if you prefer a softer texture.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Stays Tender and Not Mushy?
To get perfectly tender zucchini, it’s essential to slice it thinly and avoid overcooking. Even though the casserole includes baking time, sautéing helps soften it first. Follow these tips:
- Slice zucchini into even rounds, around 1/4 inch thick to promote even cooking.
- Sauté the zucchini lightly before adding it to the casserole. This helps reduce moisture that can make the dish watery.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a casserole with beautifully cooked zucchini!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. So, set aside around 45 minutes total, and you’ll have a warm and hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes just right when you’re ready to pop it in!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once heated, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until you can smell that lovely aroma.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine your cooked chicken, the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, sour cream, mayonnaise, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Add Zucchini and Cheese:
Add the thinly sliced zucchini and shredded mozzarella cheese to your chicken mixture. Gently stir until combined, being careful not to squash the zucchini.
5. Assemble in Baking Dish:
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, around 9×9 inches works great. Spread it out evenly to ensure nice cooking throughout.
6. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. If you want that extra crunch, add the breadcrumbs as well!
7. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. Yum!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. This will help it set and make serving easier!
Enjoy your comforting and delicious Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen zucchini well to remove excess moisture before mixing it into the casserole. This helps prevent the dish from becoming watery during baking.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or additional sour cream work great as healthier alternatives, giving the casserole a similar creamy texture without the added calories.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should 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. You might want to add a little splash of chicken broth to keep it moist when reheating.
