This chicken zucchini casserole is a lovely mix of juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and melted cheese. It’s super easy to make and perfect for a family dinner!
One of my favorite things about this dish is how it all comes together in one pan. Less cleanup means more time to relax with family. It’s a win-win! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for easy shredding, but any cooked chicken works. If you’re vegetarian, consider using chickpeas or tofu as a substitute!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are great in this dish, but they can be swapped with yellow squash or even spinach if you’re looking for a slightly different flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that meltiness! If you want a stronger flavor, feel free to replace some of it with cheddar or gouda. Vegan cheese can also work if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream: Don’t have sour cream? Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative. It adds creaminess and a bit of tang. Alternatively, you can use cottage cheese if you want a protein boost!
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Isn’t Watery?
Using zucchini can sometimes lead to a watery casserole. To avoid this, it’s essential to cook the zucchini before adding it to the mix. Here are some steps to keep in mind:
- Slice zucchini thin so it cooks faster.
- After sautéing, if there’s excess moisture, you can drain it off in a colander.
- Cook it until it’s just tender, not mushy. This helps keep moisture in check.
Following these tips will ensure your casserole has the right texture and isn’t overly watery!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Creaminess:
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
For Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Other:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole will take you about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, making a total of 45 minutes. You’ll be enjoying a warm, cheesy meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows your casserole to cook evenly while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell that delicious aroma!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchinis to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper, and sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the zucchini is slightly tender. Then, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, the sautéed zucchini mixture, sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), dried basil, and oregano. Mix well to ensure everything is nicely blended.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish, ensuring all ingredients are nicely layered.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create that wonderful cheesy crust as it bakes.
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden and oozy!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This waiting moment is the hardest, but it makes cutting and serving much easier!
Enjoy your delicious, easy chicken zucchini casserole with a salad or some crusty bread on the side! 😊
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked?
It’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe, as you’ll want to avoid undercooking it. You can use rotisserie chicken or boil/roast chicken pieces first. If you insist on using raw chicken, just make sure to cook it thoroughly in the skillet before adding other ingredients, and adjust baking time accordingly.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, feel free to omit it completely or substitute it with extra sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even cottage cheese for added creaminess! Each alternative will contribute a slightly different flavor and texture but will still keep your casserole delicious.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. If you’re reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the top from burning!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just be mindful of moisture levels. If you use vegetables that release more water, like mushrooms, you may want to sauté them first to reduce excess moisture before mixing them in!
