This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a tasty dish packed with juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese—perfect for a busy weeknight! It’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy.
I love how this dish turns veggies into a star player. It feels great to serve something healthy that tastes so good. Plus, leftovers are even better the next day! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are great for this dish. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash can be a good substitute. It’s slightly sweeter but still fits well!
Cooked Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for ease, but you can use leftover grilled or baked chicken. If you’re vegetarian, sautéed mushrooms or lentils work as tasty replacements.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor, but mozzarella is milder and gooey. Feel free to swap it for your favorite cheese—Swiss or Monterey Jack work too!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a healthy swap that adds creaminess. If dairy-free, consider a plant-based yogurt alternative.
Mayonnaise: It’s optional, but it really adds creaminess. You can skip this or use a vegan mayo for a lighter taste!
How Do I Get My Zucchini Just Right?
It’s essential to cook zucchini just enough to soften but still have some crunch. To achieve this, sauté for only about 4-5 minutes. This way, it won’t turn mushy in your casserole!
- Start by heating oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant (3-4 mins).
- Then, toss in the zucchini slices and gently stir, cooking for a short time.
This method keeps the zucchini vibrant while allowing its flavor to shine through in the casserole! Enjoy your cooking! 🥒🍽️
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or poached chicken works well)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake, so you’ll have dinner ready in about 35-40 minutes total. That’s perfect for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is an important first step to ensure the casserole cooks evenly.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and stir it in with the onion and garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is slightly softened but still holds its shape. Season with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning, then remove from heat.
4. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, the sautéed zucchini mixture, sour cream, and mayonnaise (if you’re using it). Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Grease an 8×8-inch casserole dish and pour the chicken and zucchini mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
6. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly!
8. Let It Rest:
Once you remove the casserole from the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything settle a bit, making it easier to serve.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a nice garnish. Serve warm, and enjoy your easy, comforting, and healthy dinner!
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to enjoy veggies and protein in one dish. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Zucchini?
Fresh zucchini is best for the best texture, but if you have frozen zucchini on hand, you can use it! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole to avoid a soggy dish.
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! This casserole works wonderfully with cooked turkey or even cooked sausage. For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with quinoa, chickpeas, or even more veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead! Just assemble it in the dish, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time as it will be coming straight from the fridge.
