This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a tasty one-pan dish that combines juicy chicken with tender zucchini and cheesy goodness. It’s a great way to use up those garden veggies!
You know what’s awesome? It’s super simple to make! Just mix everything, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy days when you still want something yummy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add moisture and texture. If you don’t have zucchinis, try using yellow squash or even eggplant as a substitute. Both will give a slightly different taste but work well in casseroles.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for this recipe since it’s convenient and flavorful. You can also use leftover chicken, turkey, or even shredded canned chicken if you’re in a pinch!
Cheeses: Cheddar and Parmesan provide richness and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. Goat cheese or feta can also add a nice twist!
Sour Cream/Yogurt: I prefer sour cream for its tanginess, but Greek yogurt works just as well. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based yogurt. It won’t change the dish too much.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Zucchini for Cooking?
Preparing zucchini properly can help prevent a watery casserole. Start by slicing your zucchinis into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. You want them even so they cook at the same rate.
- If you’re concerned about moisture, sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit in a strainer for about 15 minutes. This draws out excess water.
- Afterward, gently pat them dry with a paper towel before layering them in your casserole. This prevents your dish from getting soggy!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 large zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to bake. You’ll have a comforting meal ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You can lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to keep everything from sticking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and the garlic is fragrant. This adds wonderful flavor to your casserole!
3. Combine the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended. This creamy mixture is what makes your casserole so comforting!
4. Layer the Zucchini:
In your greased baking dish, spread half of the sliced zucchini in an even layer. This will create a nice base for the casserole.
5. Add the Chicken Mixture:
Now, spread half of the chicken mixture over the zucchini layer, making sure it covers the zucchini evenly. Don’t be shy with this step—try to get it all over that zucchini!
6. Sprinkle with Cheese:
Next, sprinkle half of both the cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the chicken mixture. This will give it that gooey, cheesy top we all love!
7. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layering process with the remaining zucchini, the rest of the chicken mixture, and top it off with the last of the cheese. Layering adds texture and flavor!
8. Bake:
Cover your casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps cook the zucchini without burning the cheese.
9. Uncover and Finish Baking:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be golden and bubbly, and the zucchini should be tender when pierced with a fork.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Let your casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This waiting time helps everything settle together. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired!
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy chicken zucchini casserole with your family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! If you’re starting with uncooked chicken, simply cook and shred it before adding it to the casserole. You can bake, poach, or sauté it until fully cooked, then follow the recipe as directed.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute the mayonnaise with an equal amount of Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor or even use an extra half cup of sour cream. Both alternatives will keep the casserole creamy!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to bake.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of chicken broth or a dollop of sour cream before reheating!
