This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a lovely mix of tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and cheesy goodness. It’s baked to perfection and is super comforting!
I love how quick it is to prepare—just toss everything into a dish and let the oven do the hard work. Perfect for busy nights when you need a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Any cooked chicken works here, whether it’s rotisserie, grilled, or leftovers. You can even use turkey if you prefer!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add a nice texture. If zucchinis aren’t available, yellow squash or even bell peppers can make great substitutes.
Cheeses: Mixing cheddar and mozzarella gives a great blend of flavor and meltiness. Feel free to use any cheese you enjoy, like gouda or Monterey Jack.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These add creaminess, but Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap if you’re looking to lighten things up.
Spices: Dried Italian seasoning is tasty, but you can swap it for your favorite herbs—basil, oregano, or even fresh herbs for an extra punch!
How Do I Sauté the Onion and Garlic for Maximum Flavor?
Sautéing onions and garlic is a simple yet crucial step for enhancing flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat. This allows the onions to soften without burning.
- Cook the onions until they’re translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness.
- Add garlic after the onions are soft. Garlic cooks much faster, so add it in the last minute to avoid bitterness.
- Stir frequently to keep everything from sticking and to evenly cook.
Once done, it should smell amazing and be ready to add to your casserole for that extra layer of taste! Enjoy cooking! 😊
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is around 45 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes baking. It’s quick and simple, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s ready when you’re done preparing the casserole.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the olive oil or butter. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. This step really enhances the flavor!
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, sliced zucchini, sour cream, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed and incorporated evenly.
4. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Lightly grease a casserole dish with some more olive oil or butter. Pour the chicken and zucchini mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Add the Cheddar, Mozzarella, and Parmesan:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the casserole. This cheesy topping will create a delightful crust!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for melted, bubbly cheese and tender zucchini. You’ll know it’s done when the whole kitchen smells amazing!
7. Let It Rest:
Once your casserole is baked, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This waiting time helps it set a little before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a bit of color. Now, dig in and enjoy your hearty, cheesy chicken zucchini casserole!
Can I Use Fresh Zucchini Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh zucchini works best for this casserole as it retains its texture and flavor. If you use frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise or Sour Cream?
No worries! You can substitute Greek yogurt for either or both. It will give you that creamy texture and a slight tang, plus it’s a healthier option!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or a mix of your favorite vegetables for added texture and nutrients.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy it as a quick meal!
