This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a tasty, one-dish meal that combines tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and creamy goodness. It’s simple and family-friendly!
I love how the cheese melts perfectly on top. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies! Serve it with some bread, and you’ve got an easy dinner that’ll make everyone smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here. If you can’t find it, yellow squash is a great alternative. Both add a lovely texture to the casserole.
Cooked Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken is my go-to. It’s super convenient! You can also use canned chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Cheeses: Mozzarella adds creaminess, while Parmesan brings a salty punch. If you’re dairy-free, try almond or cashew cheese, which melts nicely too!
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: They both add creaminess. Use unsweetened coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option. I love using Greek yogurt for extra protein!
How Do You Layer for the Best Texture?
Layering is key for this casserole. Start with a layer of zucchini, then chicken mix, and repeat. Make sure the mixture covers the zucchini completely to prevent it from getting too watery.
- Start with a layer of zucchini at the bottom to absorb flavors.
- Let each layer of chicken mixture meet the edges of the dish for even cooking.
- Finish with cheese on top for a beautiful, bubbly crust.
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 40 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need around 55 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become fragrant and translucent—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Mix the Chicken Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, the sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, dried oregano, dried basil, and half of both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper for extra flavor!
3. Layering Time:
Lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish to prevent sticking. Start by arranging a layer of sliced zucchini in the bottom of the dish. Then, spread half of the chicken mixture over the zucchini, smoothing it out evenly. Repeat with another layer of zucchini on top of the chicken mixture.
4. Finish & Top It Off:
Spread the remaining chicken mixture over the last layer of zucchini. Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. If you like a little crunch, feel free to sprinkle breadcrumbs as well!
5. Bake and Enjoy:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious, homemade casserole!
FAQs for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! If you’re starting with fresh chicken, you can quickly cook it in the skillet before adding it to the casserole. Simply sauté it until fully cooked, then shred or dice it and proceed with the recipe as usual.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’d prefer not to use mayonnaise, you can use an equal amount of Greek yogurt for creaminess. You could also try mustard or a dressing of your choice for a different flavor twist!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. You may want to cover it to retain moisture while reheating.
