This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a tasty one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy nights. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and fresh zucchini!
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies! I love that it’s simple to throw together, and before you know it, dinner is ready and you’re left with just one dish to clean! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives a nice texture to the casserole. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works as a great substitute. I often use whatever’s in season for the best flavor!
Cooked Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. If you prefer a meat-free option, diced tofu or chickpeas can work well too!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. Feel free to swap it for mozzarella for a milder taste, or use a dairy-free cheese if you need a lighter option.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: Together, they give a creamy texture, but Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for sour cream. Just keep in mind that it will taste a bit tangy. If you’re avoiding mayo, a little extra yogurt can also replace it!
How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right Without Making It Soggy?
Getting zucchini just right is key for a great casserole! You want it tender, not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- First, slice the zucchini evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Consider lightly salting the zucchini slices and letting them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture.
- Make sure to squeeze out any extra water with a paper towel before mixing it into the casserole.
This extra step makes a big difference in achieving that perfect texture!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium 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 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and then 25 to 30 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll spend around 45-50 minutes before it’s time to dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and while that’s heating up, lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning up easier later!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, grab a skillet and heat up the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes nice and translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that delicious aroma. Then, remove it from heat and set aside.
3. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, the sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, the Parmesan cheese, and any dried seasoning if you’re using it. Stir it all together until everything is well mixed and creamy.
4. Incorporate the Zucchini:
Now it’s time to gently fold in the sliced zucchini. Make sure each slice gets coated in that creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer your mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for a melty finish. If you’d like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top as well!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the top to be golden brown and bubbly, and the zucchini should be tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a bit for easier serving. Now, scoop it onto plates and enjoy your comforting Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole!
Happy cooking! 😊
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Zucchini?
Absolutely! Fresh zucchini is preferred for texture, but if you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture. Pat it dry with a paper towel before adding it to the mixture!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or even additional sour cream as a substitute for mayonnaise. It will still provide creaminess and flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, assemble it, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge!
