This Easy Cheesy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Packed with juicy chicken, fresh zucchinis, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s comfort food at its best.
It’s a breeze to make—just mix everything, pop it in the oven, and you’re set! I love serving it with some garlic bread on the side; trust me, your plate will be empty in no time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and texture. If zucchini is out of season, you can substitute with yellow squash or even broccoli for a different twist!
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its ease, but any leftover chicken works too! You could also use canned chicken if you’re in a hurry.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative that gives a similar texture. You could also use low-fat sour cream if desired!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but feel free to mix and match! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor.
Mayonnaise: It helps bind the ingredients. If you’re avoiding mayo, you can skip it or use an avocado or tahini for creaminess.
How Do You Ensure Even Cooking for Zucchini in the Casserole?
Cooking the zucchini right is key! Sautéing it in the skillet helps reduce moisture and ensures it softens without making your casserole watery. Here’s how:
- Slice the zucchini evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Sauté the zucchini with onions and garlic until they are tender but not mushy—about 5-7 minutes is ideal.
- Allow it to cool slightly before mixing it with other ingredients to avoid excess steam in the casserole.
This helps keep your casserole thick and hearty. Trust me, the flavors meld together beautifully for a comforting dish you’ll love!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
For the Cheesy Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Chicken Zucchini Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in a little over 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. It’s amazing how good this smells!
3. Add Zucchini and Corn:
Stir in the chopped zucchini and corn into the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until the zucchini softens slightly. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.
4. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the cheddar cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and the sautéed vegetables. Mix everything together until well combined, creating a creamy, delicious mixture.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for that gooey goodness!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted with a slight golden color on top.
7. Finishing Touches:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for extra color and flavor. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving—this will make it easier to scoop!
8. Enjoy!
Serving this Easy Cheesy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is like sharing a warm hug with your loved ones. Enjoy it on its own or with a side of garlic bread. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
It’s best to use cooked chicken to ensure even cooking and safety. If you want to use raw chicken, I recommend sautéing or baking it first, then shredding or cubing before adding it to the casserole mixture.
How Can I Make This Casserole Healthier?
You can substitute low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise to reduce calories and fat. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients! Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta instead of the zucchini if you prefer cleaner carbs.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking or after it’s cooked. For freezing, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
What Should I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole pairs great with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or rice to soak up all the delicious cheesy goodness!
