This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a comforting dish filled with juicy chicken and tender zucchini, all baked together in a cheesy, creamy sauce. Yum!
I love how simple it is to make! Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. It’s perfect for busy nights! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are great for their mild flavor and nice texture. If you’re short on zucchini, yellow squash works well too. You can also try other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for a different twist.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is my go-to choice for this recipe. Shredded rotisserie chicken is perfect for saving time! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you could substitute with cooked chickpeas or tofu instead.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. Mozzarella offers a milder taste and is gooey when melted. Feel free to try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy!
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both add creaminess to the casserole. If you want a lighter option, you can use plain yogurt, or even low-fat sour cream works great here. Cream cheese can be a nice alternative too, just make sure to soften it first.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking zucchini just right can be tricky. You want it tender but not mushy. Here’s how to achieve the perfect texture:
- Slice the zucchini into even half-moons to ensure it cooks uniformly.
- Cook it on medium heat with some oil or butter. This not only flavors the zucchini but also helps it cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally and watch for it to become slightly tender. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes. The goal is to soften it without letting it lose its shape.
Perfectly cooked zucchini adds a lovely touch to the casserole, balancing all those flavors beautifully!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables and Chicken:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Cheeses:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Creamy Base:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
Seasonings and Others:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes around 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and fuss-free recipe perfect for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, take a medium-sized casserole dish and lightly grease it with some cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In a skillet, add the olive oil or butter and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s warm, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will make your house smell amazing!
3. Cooking the Zucchini:
Next, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Stir it around and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s slightly tender but still has a nice bite to it—no mushy zucchini here! Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, oregano, and basil to enhance the flavors.
4. Mixing Everything Together:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, the sautéed zucchini mixture, sour cream, mayonnaise (if you want some extra creaminess), and half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
5. Transferring to the Dish:
Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so that every bite is packed with deliciousness!
6. Adding the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. The extra cheese will melt into a lovely, gooey layer while baking.
7. Baking the Casserole:
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.
8. Serving:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps everything settle a bit before you dig in! Serve warm and enjoy your delicious chicken zucchini casserole!
Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite! 🥘
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Zucchini?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen zucchini if that’s what you have on hand! Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can simply omit it or replace it with extra sour cream or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. Cream cheese can also work well for a creamy texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or cream can help revive the moisture!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté them briefly to ensure they cook properly in the oven.
