Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Cooked Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. You can also swap it with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are great, but if they’re out of season, yellow squash works too. You can even try spinach or cooked broccoli as a substitute.

Cheeses: I love cheddar for its melty quality, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack for a bit of kick! Use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.

Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be a healthier choice and adds creaminess. For dairy-free, coconut yogurt is a good alternative.

Breadcrumbs: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or even crushed nuts for that crunchy topping!

How Can I Make Sure My Zucchini Is Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking zucchini just right is key to keeping it from getting mushy in the casserole. Here’s how to do it:

• Slice the zucchini evenly for consistent cooking. About 1/4 inch thick is ideal.
• Cooking it in the skillet first helps draw out some moisture, so it won’t make the casserole too wet. Aim for just 5 minutes.
• Season well! Salt and pepper enhance the zucchini flavor beautifully.

This approach helps maintain a nice texture while blending well with the other flavors in your casserole.

Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
• 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cheesy Mixture:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

For Topping (Optional):

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Other Essentials:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This casserole comes together in about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 25-30 minutes for baking. Total, you’re looking at about 45-50 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a medium-sized casserole dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Cooking the Vegetables:

In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, letting the lovely garlic aroma fill your kitchen.

3. Adding Zucchini:

Now, it’s time to add the sliced zucchinis. Cook for about 5 minutes, just until they are slightly softened. Season them with salt, pepper, and the Italian herbs. This will enhance their flavor beautifully!

4. Mixing the Casserole Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, the sautéed zucchini mixture, sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well blended.

5. Assembling the Casserole:

Transfer the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, and if you like a crunchy texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.

6. Baking to Perfection:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and turns a lovely golden brown.

7. Finishing Touches:

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch, if you’d like, and then serve it warm. Enjoy your delicious, easy chicken zucchini casserole!

FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole

Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?

Absolutely! You can use raw chicken breast; just cube it and cook it in the skillet before adding the onions and garlic. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) before combining it with the other ingredients.

What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Zucchini?

If you have leftover zucchini, feel free to use it in this recipe! Just make sure to slice it thinly. You can also sauté it briefly before mixing it into the casserole. It will add great flavor!

Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge and increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions as needed.