This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole is a warm and comforting dish. It’s filled with tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese, making it super tasty!
Just toss everything in a baking dish and relax while it cooks. I love how it’s a one-dish meal—less mess means more time to enjoy! Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture and flavor. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too. Both have a similar taste and texture and will still yield a yummy dish.
Chicken: I like using boneless skinless chicken breasts for their ease. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier option or even use rotisserie chicken to save some time!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a great meltiness while Parmesan adds a salty kick. If you’re looking for lower-fat options, try reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese.
Marinara Sauce: Any jarred tomato sauce will do here! If you prefer homemade, just cook down some tomatoes, basil, and garlic. For a twist, try pesto instead for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the chicken just right is key. Start by cutting it into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly. Before mixing it with other ingredients, cook it until it turns white—this means it’s starting to cook through. Remember, it will finish cooking in the oven, so don’t stress if it’s not completely done at this stage!
- Cook chicken in the skillet until it loses its pink color, about 5 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature before serving—it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Enjoy this simple and hearty meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight! 🍽️
Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect about 35 minutes for a hearty meal that’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot for baking your casserole.
2. Sauté the Onions:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they’re translucent, which should take about 3 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Chicken:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the chicken pieces, season them with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian herbs. Cook the chicken until it turns white but isn’t fully cooked through, about 5 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Zucchini:
Now, stir in the zucchini slices and continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, just to soften them a bit.
5. Combine Sauce and Cream:
Take the skillet off the heat and mix in the marinara sauce and heavy cream until everything is well combined. This creates a creamy, flavorful base for your casserole.
6. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Transfer this mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese to add an extra layer of flavor!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for melted, bubbly cheese and fully cooked chicken (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
9. Let it Rest:
Once baked, take it out of the oven, and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the casserole settle and makes serving easier.
10. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a touch of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting and flavorful baked chicken and zucchini casserole!
This dish is perfect for a family dinner and can easily be adapted with different veggies or seasonings. Enjoy! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Can I Substitute the Cream in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, you can use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream or half-and-half. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the richness of the dish.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to mix in other veggies you enjoy! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions. Just remember to keep them chopped into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish before baking, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as it will start from a cold state.
