This easy chicken zucchini casserole is a cozy, one-dish meal that combines tender chicken and fresh zucchini. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!
I love how this casserole makes dinner a breeze. Just mix everything together and let the oven do the work. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This veggie is the star! Choose firm zucchinis and slice or dice them as you prefer. If zucchini is out of season, you could use yellow squash or even spinach for a different twist.
Chicken: Cooked chicken is a must for this dish. I often use leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, feel free to swap in cooked lentils or chickpeas!
Cheese: Cheddar adds lovely creaminess, but you can mix it up! Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese would also work well. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat cheese.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: These add richness. Plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier option. It keeps the creaminess while adding some protein too!
How Do You Ensure the Zucchini is Not Watery?
Zucchini can release a lot of moisture while baking, which is why it’s important to prep it well. Aim to slice the zucchini thinly for faster cooking, and consider salting it first:
- After slicing, sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps draw out excess water.
- Pat the slices dry with a paper towel before adding them to your mixture. This simple step keeps your casserole from becoming soggy.
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables & Protein:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced or diced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Dairy:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings (optional):
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (for topping)
Other:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at approximately 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect quick dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for ensuring your casserole cooks evenly. While the oven heats, go ahead and grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or butter—this helps prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, add your cooked chicken and sliced zucchini. Next, toss in the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want those flavors to meld!
3. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Once your mixture is ready, scoop it into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. This helps with even cooking and makes serving later a breeze.
4. Add Toppings:
If you want a crispy finish, this is where you sprinkle the breadcrumbs or crushed crackers evenly over the top of your casserole. This step is optional but adds a delightful crunch!
5. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbling and the top has turned a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end so it doesn’t overcook!
6. Let It Cool & Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving—it’ll be hot! Dish it out, and enjoy your comforting and easy chicken zucchini casserole. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
FAQ About Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Raw Zucchini in This Recipe?
While it’s best to use cooked or prepped zucchini to reduce moisture, if you prefer to use raw, just slice it thinly and consider salting it first. Letting it sit for 10-15 minutes will help draw out excess water!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can definitely mix it up! Broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach are great additions that pair well with chicken and zucchini. Just be sure to chop them small and consider their cooking times.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water or cover it to prevent drying out!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time while it cooks from cold.
