This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole is a tasty one-pan meal! It features tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and creamy cheese all baked together for a comforting dish.
You’ll love how simple it is to make—just toss the ingredients in a casserole dish and let the oven do its magic. Perfect for busy nights when you want a wholesome meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you prefer, thighs can be juicier and more flavorful. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice crunch! If you can’t find it, yellow squash makes a good substitute and will work just as well.
Cheese: Mozzarella for that stretchy goodness and Parmesan for a nice flavor boost. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using plant-based cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Olive Oil: It adds richness and helps the veggies cook beautifully. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter if desired.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Perfectly without Drying It Out?
To achieve juicy chicken in your casserole, cutting the breasts into thin strips ensures even cooking. Plus, baking the chicken alongside zucchini helps retain moisture. Keep an eye on it, and use a food thermometer; when it hits 165°F (74°C), it’s ready!
- Slice chicken thinly for quick cooking.
- Layer zucchini on top to protect the chicken from drying out.
- Add cheese towards the end for a perfect golden and bubbly finish.
Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole will take about 10 minutes to prepare, followed by 25-30 minutes of baking time. So overall, you’re looking at about 40 minutes until you can dig into this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets or strips. This will help them cook quickly and evenly, giving you tender bites every time!
3. Season the Zucchini:
In a bowl, toss the zucchini slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and half the minced garlic. This will add flavor and help the zucchini cook down nicely.
4. Season the Chicken:
Now, season the chicken with salt, pepper, the remaining minced garlic, and the Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat it well for the best flavor.
5. Layer the Ingredients:
In your greased baking dish, arrange the seasoned chicken evenly at the bottom. Then layer the zucchini slices on top of the chicken, so they keep it moist while baking.
6. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the zucchini, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese on top. This combination will melt beautifully during baking!
7. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
For that extra golden and crispy cheese layer, lightly drizzle the remaining olive oil over the entire cheesy surface.
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C), and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
9. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices settle, making each bite even better!
10. Garnish and Serve:
For a fresh touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top before serving. Enjoy this warm, delicious, and comforting casserole!
This casserole is not only easy to make but also low-carb and keto-friendly. It’s a tasty way to enjoy chicken and veggies in one delightful dish. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can swap zucchini for other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust as needed to ensure everything is tender.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
While it’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe, you can use frozen thighs or breasts. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before preparing this casserole to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Make This a Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Dish?
This recipe is already low-carb, but you can reduce the carb count further by using fewer zucchinis or replacing them with cauliflower rice. Additionally, opt for full-fat cheese for richer flavor without added carbs.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy!
