This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a tasty mix of tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and creamy cheese. It’s simple to make and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pan dish? I can whip this up quickly for busy nights. Plus, leftovers make for yummy lunch the next day—if there’s any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is ideal, but if they’re out of season, you can use yellow squash instead for a similar taste and texture.
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. For a healthier twist, try using leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken for a quick option.
Cheeses: Cheddar is my go-to. However, feel free to mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick! If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese alternatives that melt well.
Sour Cream/Yogurt: I often use Greek yogurt for extra protein and a tangy flavor. If needed, dairy-free yogurt can work too!
Mayonnaise: If you want to lighten it up, you can skip the mayo or replace it with additional yogurt.
How Do You Cook Zucchini Without Making It Watery?
To keep your zucchini from turning mushy, slicing them into 1/4-inch rounds helps maintain structure. Here’s a neat trick:
- Before mixing them in, sprinkle the sliced zucchini with a little salt and let them sit for 15 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture.
- Afterward, pat them dry with a paper towel to soak up the liquid before adding them to the casserole.
This simple step can really enhance the texture of your final dish!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to bake, totaling about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its delicious aroma!
3. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked onion and garlic with sour cream, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed.
4. Combine with Chicken and Zucchini:
Add the shredded chicken, sliced zucchinis, and half of the cheddar cheese into the bowl. Gently fold everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for even cooking.
6. Top the Casserole:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan on top. If you like a crunchy topping, add the optional breadcrumbs evenly over everything.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
8. Let it Rest and Serve:
When done, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to set up a bit. This makes it easier to serve!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish your casserole with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Scoop it onto plates and enjoy your delicious chicken zucchini casserole!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Fresh Zucchini Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh zucchini works best in this recipe for optimal texture and flavor. Just be sure to slice it into 1/4-inch rounds to help it cook evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer to skip mayonnaise, you can use all sour cream or Greek yogurt instead. It will still give the casserole a creamy texture without the added calories from mayo!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance! Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s chilled.
