This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole is a warm, comforting dish packed with juicy chicken and fresh zucchini. It’s simple to make and full of cheesy goodness!
I love how this casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day! You might want to hide some for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I prefer using thinly sliced chicken breasts for a quicker bake. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, that works great too! Just add it in towards the end of baking since it’s already cooked.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash or even eggplant can be good substitutes. Frozen zucchini can work, too, but it might be a bit watery, so drain it well.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan create that delicious cheesy topping. While I love the gooeyness of mozzarella, feel free to swap it for provolone or cheddar if that’s your preference! Just remember that cheddar will give a sharper flavor.
Italian Seasoning: This blend brings great flavor to the dish. If you don’t have it, you can mix equal parts of dried oregano, basil, and thyme for a similar taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the chicken just right is crucial in this casserole. Here’s how I do it:
- Slice the chicken thin; this speeds up cooking time and ensures even baking.
- Keep your oven at 375°F (190°C) for the right amount of time. This temp allows the chicken to cook through without drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer: aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked safely.
- Letting it rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain juices, keeping your meat tender.
Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you put the casserole in, it begins cooking immediately and evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and keep your casserole nice and golden.
3. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, season your thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. This adds flavor to the chicken, making it juicy and tasty.
4. Layer the Chicken:
Arrange the seasoned chicken slices evenly on the bottom of the greased baking dish. Make sure to cover the dish well so that every bite has yummy chicken!
5. Add the Zucchini:
Next, lay the zucchini rounds on top of the chicken. Try to keep them in a single layer for even cooking. They’ll soak up all those delicious flavors!
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the zucchini. This gives them a nice, roasted texture when they bake.
7. Add the Cheesy Toppings:
Now, sprinkle that gooey mozzarella cheese evenly over the zucchini and chicken. Follow it up with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy finish!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown!
9. Rest and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps to set everything. If you’d like, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley or chives to make it look extra pretty!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole is ready to be served! Enjoy this cheesy and delicious dish as a perfect option for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
FAQ for Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, make sure to completely thaw it first. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight is best, or you can use the quick method of submerging it in cold water. Just be sure to pat it dry before seasoning!
Can I Substitute Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While zucchini is delicious, you can swap it for yellow squash, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may change the cooking time slightly, so check for doneness accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out if necessary. Enjoy it again as a quick lunch or dinner!
Is This Casserole Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen! Assemble the dish without baking it, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking as directed.
