This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that brings together juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for a family meal!
To be honest, I love how simple this recipe is. Just toss everything in one pan and let it bake. It’s like a hug in a dish. Plus, leftovers are great for lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star of this casserole. If zucchini is out of season, you can try yellow squash as a great substitute!
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience. You could also use leftover chicken. If you need a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for chickpeas or cooked quinoa.
Cheeses: Cheddar adds a rich flavor, but mozzarella also works nicely if you prefer something milder. For a stronger taste, feel free to mix in some feta or goat cheese!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These provide creaminess. Greek yogurt can replace both for a healthier take, giving you a similar texture.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right?
The key to great zucchini in this dish is to cook it slightly before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess water. Here’s how:
- Heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until aromatic.
- Add sliced zucchini and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it softens a bit. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
This method brings out the zucchini’s flavor while preventing the casserole from becoming too watery.
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 large zucchinis, sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish. Just enough time to relax while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be ready when you’re done preparing the casserole.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will add a lovely flavor base to your casserole!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchini into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is slightly softened. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, the sautéed zucchini and onion mixture, sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of each cheese (cheddar and Parmesan). Stir everything well until it’s combined.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Transfer the mixture from the bowl into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Add the Cheese and Breadcrumbs:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you want a crunchy topping, feel free to add breadcrumbs now.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. The casserole should be bubbling around the edges and the top should be golden brown when it’s done.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Then, serve it up and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness with a side of rice or a fresh green salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Yes! If you’re using fresh chicken, cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole. You can bake, grill, or sauté it until it’s fully cooked through, then shred or dice it for the casserole.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream and Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for both sour cream and mayonnaise. It will add a nice creaminess and a bit of tang, making the casserole just as delicious.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This casserole is versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté any extra veggies before adding them to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
