Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Zucchini: Fresh zucchini brings a lovely texture and moisture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great alternative. It has a similar texture and flavor.

Chicken: Using leftover chicken makes this dish quick and easy. However, rotisserie chicken is also a fantastic choice! If you’re vegetarian, try substituting cooked chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.

Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, but feel free to substitute mozzarella for a milder flavor. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan cheese products, just make sure they melt well.

Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt works well in place of sour cream or mayonnaise. It’ll still add creaminess without the extra calories.

How Do You Get the Zucchini Just Right?

Cooking zucchini properly is key to preventing excess moisture in the casserole. Follow these steps:

• Slice the zucchini evenly so they cook uniformly.
• Consider salting the sliced zucchini: sprinkle salt and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat dry before layering!
• Layer them carefully in the dish to get that nice baked texture without being soggy.

These little steps will ensure your casserole turns out flavorful and not watery. Happy cooking!

Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Casserole:

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly 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 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake. So, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready in a little over an hour!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and perfectly.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent—this will create a fragrant base for the casserole.

3. Mix the Chicken Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, the sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to make sure everything is nicely combined and coated.

4. Prepare the Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Start layering the casserole by placing half of the sliced zucchini at the bottom of the dish.

5. Layer with Chicken Mixture:

Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the zucchini. This will create a delicious first layer of flavor.

6. Add Cheese:

Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken mixture. Who doesn’t love melty cheese?

7. Repeat the Layers:

Now, layer the remaining zucchini slices on top, followed by the rest of the chicken mixture. Finish with the remaining shredded cheese and Parmesan for a golden, cheesy topping.

8. Bake the Casserole:

Cover the dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This helps to keep everything moist and flavorful.

9. Get That Golden Top:

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You’ll want the top to be golden and bubbly—so inviting!

10. Cool and Serve:

Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. This makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like, and enjoy your delicious Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole!

FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole

Can I Use Raw Chicken in This Recipe?

While this recipe is designed for cooked chicken for quick prep, you can use raw chicken by sautéing it first. Just cook it separately in the skillet until it’s no longer pink, then shred or dice it before mixing with the other ingredients.

What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?

If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, or even an additional 1/2 cup of sour cream for a similar creamy texture and flavor.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or transfer it back to a baking dish and heat in the oven until heated through.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they’re cut into small pieces so they cook evenly with the zucchini.