This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with tender zucchini, all baked together in one pan. It’s simple and full of flavor!
I love how this casserole warms up in the oven while I relax. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak more veggies onto my plate, and who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add a lovely texture and moisture. If zucchinis aren’t available, you could use yellow squash or even eggplant as a substitute.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with! You can swap them for thighs if you prefer a juicier option or use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan give a creamy and rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce, or make your own! For a fresh kick, a homemade tomato sauce with fresh herbs is a wonderful alternative.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken in a casserole can be tricky since it’s layered with veggies and sauce. Here’s how you get it right:
- Cook the chicken until slightly browned but not fully done; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Ensure the chicken pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Keep the dish covered for the first part of baking to retain moisture, then uncover to let the cheese brown.
By using these tips, your chicken will come out juicy every time! Enjoy your dish! 🍽️
Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 35-40 minutes to bake, making a total time of about 55-60 minutes. This includes cooking the chicken, layering the ingredients, and baking. You’ll love how quickly it comes together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and start to smell fantastic.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to your skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides, which should take about 5-6 minutes. It’s okay if it’s not completely cooked through; it will finish in the oven!
4. Layer the Casserole:
Grab a large baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the zucchini slices over the sauce. Next, pour the cooked chicken mixture over the zucchini. Then, use the rest of the marinara sauce to cover the chicken. Finally, layer the remaining zucchini slices on top.
5. Add the Cheesy Toppings:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cheese makes everything better!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, which helps keep it moist during baking. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and turns a lovely golden brown.
7. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once baked, carefully take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This waiting time helps everything settle. If you like, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, then serve warm and enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken completely before using it. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for faster thawing. Make sure to pat it dry before sautéing!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of marinara sauce can help keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, you can use yellow squash, eggplant, or even thinly sliced bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as you bake!
