This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a tasty and comforting meal that brings together juicy chicken and fresh zucchini. It’s cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-easy to make!
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! I love serving it with a side salad for a complete and colorful dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a mild flavor and moisture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great substitute. You could also use spinach or kale for a different twist!
Cooked chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works well for ease. If you prefer, use leftover chicken or even canned chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider using cooked chickpeas or tofu instead.
Cheese: Cheddar is delicious, but feel free to use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If you want a lower-fat version, look for light cheese options.
Sour cream/Greek yogurt: Both work well for creaminess. Greek yogurt is a healthier choice and can add a tangy flavor. If you want to skip dairy, use a plant-based yogurt.
Mayonnaise: I like the richness it adds, but plain yogurt or an avocado mash can be great substitutes for a healthier option.
How Can I Perfectly Sauté the Vegetables?
Sautéing your veggies properly is key to getting the best flavors in this casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil or butter; let it heat up for a minute.
- Add the chopped onion first, stirring frequently until it becomes translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
- Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Next, toss in the zucchini and season it well with salt, pepper, and your Italian herbs. Cook just until it softens slightly, about 5 minutes.
This method allows the vegetables to retain some texture while packing in delicious flavor! Happy cooking!
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
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicioso casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25–30 minutes to bake, totaling around 45 minutes. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that you can whip up quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. This will help your casserole come out beautifully!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until it’s translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This will give your casserole a lovely aroma!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes until the zucchini softens slightly but still retains some crunch. This step keeps the veggies vibrant and flavorful!
4. Mix Everything Together:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the grated Parmesan. Stir until everything is well mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures every bite has delicious goodness!
6. Add Cheese and Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. If you want a nice crunchy crust, add the breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as an optional topping.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to scoop out. Enjoy your easy, comforting Chicken Zucchini Casserole with family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Zucchini?
Fresh zucchini is best for this recipe for optimal texture and flavor. However, if you have frozen zucchini, you can use it! Just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the casserole to avoid a watery dish.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’d prefer not to use mayonnaise, you can simply use additional sour cream or Greek yogurt. You could also try using a mash of avocado for a healthy twist!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge when you put it in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy it for a quick lunch or dinner!
