This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is perfect for busy nights! It’s quick to prepare and packed with juicy chicken and tender zucchini all baked together with cheesy goodness.
Who doesn’t love a one-dish meal that tastes so good? I always feel like a rockstar when I serve this. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add moisture and flavor to this casserole. If they’re out of season, yellow squash can work as a great substitute. For additional crunch, try bell peppers or asparagus.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a go-to for me because it’s so convenient. You can also use leftover chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
Cheese: Mozzarella creates a lovely stretchy texture, while Parmesan adds richness. If you’re dairy-free, consider nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a healthier option. If you want to avoid dairy, use coconut cream for a unique twist.
How Do I Properly Sauté Zucchini?
Sautéing zucchini correctly is crucial to making sure it keeps some texture and doesn’t turn mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium heat to prevent browning too quickly.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re aiming for tender but still slightly firm zucchini.
- Season with salt and pepper early on; it’ll help draw out moisture and flavor.
Don’t rush this step; well-cooked zucchini enhances the overall taste of your casserole!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole for Busy Nights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce (optional for moisture and flavor)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano and basil mix)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy casserole recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 20-25 minutes of baking time. In total, you’re looking at a quick 40 minutes to serve up a comforting meal that the whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, take a medium casserole dish and lightly grease it with a little olive oil or non-stick spray. This will help ensure your casserole doesn’t stick!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until they’re softened and fragrant, which should take about 3 minutes.
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to make the zucchini slightly tender without allowing it to get mushy.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, the sautéed zucchini mixture, marinara sauce (if you’re using it), and sour cream or Greek yogurt (if you want that extra creaminess). Stir everything until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks evenly.
6. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy layer as it bakes!
7. Bake It Up:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake it uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You know it’s done when the cheese is all melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. This helps it firm up a little. You can garnish the top with some chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve the casserole warm and enjoy a hearty, healthy meal that’s perfect for those busy nights. You’ll love how easy it is!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the casserole. This will prevent your dish from becoming too watery.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven, and adjust the baking time as needed.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No worries! You can swap it with any favorite pasta sauce, or even a simple mixture of canned tomatoes with Italian seasoning to add flavor. Just make sure it provides enough moisture for the casserole.
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for quicker serving.
