This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a tasty dish packed with tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and cheese. It’s comforting, quick to prepare, and perfect for any day of the week!
The best part? You can throw everything together in one dish, making clean-up a breeze. I love how the cheese gets all melty—it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for quick prep or leftover chicken from a previous meal. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded turkey works well, too!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture, but if you’re out, yellow squash makes a good substitute. Just be sure to prep it the same way!
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: I like to use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and added protein. However, if you need a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or cashew cream.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that gooey texture. You could swap in cheddar for a different flavor, or use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Do You Keep Zucchini from Getting Soggy?
To prevent zucchini from becoming mushy in the casserole, it’s essential to remove excess moisture. Here’s how:
- Lightly sauté the zucchini as the recipe suggests. This way, it will soften but not lose too much water.
- Alternatively, before cooking, you can sprinkle the sliced zucchini with salt and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This draws out some moisture.
- Make sure to pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel before adding it to the casserole.
These steps will help keep your casserole nice and firm. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying dish for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Now, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook the zucchini for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly tender but still holding their shape.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with the sautéed zucchini and onion mixture. Then, add the sour cream, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Next, take your mixed casserole and transfer it to a greased baking dish (around 9×13 inches) ensuring an even spread.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top of the casserole. This is what makes it all gooey and delicious!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and lightly golden on top.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, scoop out a serving and enjoy this hearty dish with your loved ones!
Bon appétit! 🥘
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Using raw chicken is possible—just make sure to cook it thoroughly first! You can sauté diced raw chicken in the skillet before adding the onions and garlic. Make sure it’s no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Casserole Healthier?
To lighten up this dish, you can substitute low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise, or use Greek yogurt for the sour cream. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients without significantly altering the flavor.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it warms through completely.
What Should I Serve With This Casserole?
This casserole is perfect on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy! 🌿
