This Easy Cheesy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a warm, comforting dish loaded with tender chicken and fresh zucchini, all covered in a gooey cheese sauce. Yum!
I love how simple it is to make, just mix the ingredients and pop it in the oven! Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get in some veggies. Who knew healthy could taste so cheesy? 🥒🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here! You can use yellow squash if that’s what you have. Both add moisture and a mild flavor to the dish.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken if you have some in the fridge. It really makes this dish come together faster.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: If you’re looking to lighten it up, you could use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It adds a nice tang without all the fat! For cream cheese, a low-fat version works too.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic here, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds extra flavor. Even a blend of cheeses can be a fun twist!
How Do I Get My Cheese to Melt Perfectly?
Getting that cheese to melt just right can be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Shred your cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded, it’s fresher and melts better.
- Make sure to sprinkle the cheese evenly on top of the casserole for consistent melting.
- Watch it towards the end of baking. You want it bubbly and lightly golden, but not burnt!
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to help everything set up nicely!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables and Protein:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups diced)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained (optional for added texture and sweetness)
For the Creamy Base:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk (or more if needed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheesy Goodness:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the casserole dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to serving. A deliciously quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Preparing the Zucchini:
Wash your zucchinis, then chop them into small 1/2-inch pieces. This will help them cook evenly and mix well with the other ingredients.
3. Making the Creamy Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and milk. Stir everything together until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. Don’t hesitate to add more milk if you like a lighter consistency!
4. Mixing It All Together:
Now, it’s time to combine! Stir in your shredded chicken, diced zucchini, corn if you’re using it, Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure everything is mixed well, and then it’s ready to go into the dish!
5. Assembling the Casserole:
Pour the creamy mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly. Top it off with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, making it extra cheesy!
6. Baking the Casserole:
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and for the cheese on top to be melted and golden brown—delicious!
7. Serving Time:
Once it’s done baking, take it out and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps set everything together nicely. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch!
8. Enjoy!
Grab a spoon and serve yourself a warm helping of this cheesy, comforting chicken zucchini casserole. Enjoy every bite!
This recipe is sure to become a favorite with its creamy and cheesy goodness, perfectly blending tender chicken and fresh zucchini. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked?
While this recipe is designed for cooked chicken, you can use raw chicken if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it through before adding it to the casserole—about 20 minutes of simmering in broth would work, or bake it until fully cooked, then shred it.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese, which will still provide creaminess with a tangy flavor. You can also use a low-fat cream cheese alternative if you want to reduce calories.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it looks too dry.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes! This casserole freezes really well. Just make sure to cool it completely first, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before re-baking at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
