This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a warm, comforting dish perfect for any day of the week! With tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and cheesy goodness, it’s a family favorite.
The best part? It all comes together in one dish. I love how simple it is—just mix, bake, and enjoy. Plus, I can sneak some veggies in without anyone noticing! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using rotisserie chicken for this casserole because it saves time and adds great flavor! If you have leftover cooked chicken, that’s also a perfect substitute.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture. If you don’t have zucchini, yellow squash or even spinach can work, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Creamy Base: You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess. I lean towards Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If dairy is a concern, try using almond or coconut yogurt.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan are my favorites here. If you need a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheese alternatives that melt well.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Zucchini in the Casserole?
Getting the zucchini just right is key to this recipe. You want it to be tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the zucchini thinly for even cooking.
- Sauté it with onions until just tender, approximately 5-7 minutes. It should retain some firmness.
- Season it well during cooking to enhance overall flavor. Use salt and Italian seasoning to tie everything together.
Following these tips will ensure your zucchini adds the perfect texture and taste to your casserole!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or cooked breast)
- 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil or butter, for sautéing
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, making the total time around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weekday dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly. While the oven heats up, take a moment to lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish so nothing sticks.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat your olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced zucchini. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, just until the zucchini is tender but still has a nice bite. Remember to season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for extra flavor!
3. Combine Everything:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, sautéed zucchini and onions, sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Gently stir everything together until it’s mixed well.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Now, take the chicken and zucchini mixture and transfer it into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that delicious cheesy crust!
5. Bake It!
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps set everything together. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for a lovely touch and extra flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your warm chicken zucchini casserole and enjoy this cozy, comforting dish with your family and friends. It’s a wholesome meal that’s sure to please!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Zucchini Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh zucchini is recommended for this recipe as it provides the best texture and flavor. Ensure that you slice it thin so it cooks evenly in the casserole.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, you can substitute it with additional Greek yogurt or sour cream to keep the dish creamy. You can also use a dairy-free mayonnaise if you’re looking for a vegan option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored 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. If you find it a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of extra cream before reheating.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to extend the cooking time by a few minutes since it will be cold from the fridge.
