Looking for a hearty, healthy, and flavor-packed weeknight dinner that the whole family will love? This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole Recipe is the answer. Packed with tender chicken, nutritious zucchini, savory cheese, and a perfectly seasoned creamy base, this comforting casserole is both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It’s the ideal way to use fresh summer zucchini or clean out your fridge with wholesome ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Zucchini Casserole
This dish brings together lean protein, fresh vegetables, and cheesy goodness in one warm, cozy bake. It’s a great way to serve a low-carb, gluten-free, and family-friendly meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for nutrition. It’s also:
- Quick to assemble and perfect for busy weeknights
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and cheeses
- Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for meal prepping
- Ideal for using leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious and easy chicken zucchini casserole:
- 2 medium zucchini, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (optional topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
Tip: You can use cooked rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breast, or leftover roasted chicken for convenience.
How to Make Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped zucchini, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Add the Topping (Optional)
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole for a golden, crunchy finish.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, golden brown on top, and zucchini is tender.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, thyme, or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Try these creative twists:
- Add more veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes make excellent additions.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Use different cheese: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or gouda.
- Low-carb topping: Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
- Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese and yogurt alternatives.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This chicken zucchini casserole is perfect for prepping ahead and storing for later:
To Store:
Let the casserole cool completely. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Wrap the casserole tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
To Reheat:
Bake in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed rice or quinoa (if not low-carb)
- Roasted vegetables for an extra veggie boost
Nutritional Benefits
This dish isn’t just tasty — it’s also full of nutritional value:
- Zucchini is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and energized.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream adds creaminess and beneficial probiotics.
- Cheese and eggs contribute calcium and healthy fats.
It’s a satisfying, well-balanced dinner you can feel good about serving to your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
How do I keep the zucchini from getting watery?
Salt the chopped zucchini lightly and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before mixing it into the casserole.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes — skip the breadcrumb topping or use crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a delicious low-carb version.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Zucchini Casserole Recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser that’s as wholesome as it is comforting. It’s the perfect way to bring together lean protein, fresh vegetables, and cheesy flavor into one cohesive and crave-worthy dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a low-carb dinner idea, this casserole delivers every single time.
