This Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights! It features tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and creamy cheese all baked together.
I love how all the flavors blend together so nicely. Plus, it’s an easy one-pan meal, so cleaning up is a breeze! What more could you ask for? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean. If you prefer another protein, you can use skinless turkey breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a lovely texture and flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash or even thin slices of eggplant could work as great substitutes.
Cheeses: Mozzarella adds that gooey, melty quality, while Parmesan gives a nice sharp flavor. If you want to decrease calories, opt for low-fat cheese or try a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Seasoning: The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning brings great flavor. Feel free to swap in fresh herbs if you have them or adjust for your taste preferences.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy and ensure it cooks properly, searing it first is key. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat before adding oil to avoid sticking.
- Sear each side of the chicken for just 2–3 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in moisture.
- After baking in the oven, let the casserole rest! This gives the juices a chance to redistribute.
Remember, chicken is cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), so use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure!
Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of baking. In just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and season them on both sides. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This will give the chicken lots of flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add your chicken breasts and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a light golden color. They don’t need to be fully cooked just yet, so once done, remove them from heat.
4. Layer the Casserole:
Place the seared chicken breasts in your greased baking dish. Now, layer the sliced zucchini evenly over the chicken. Make it look nice—for a beautiful presentation!
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the zucchini and chicken. After that, add the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Yummy!
6. Finish and Bake:
Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over everything to add extra flavor and help the cheese brown nicely in the oven. Now it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C), the zucchini is tender, and the cheese is all melted and golden brown.
7. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This will help the cheese set a little, making it easier to slice and serve.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut into portions, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious and hearty baked chicken and zucchini casserole! This dish is not only tasty but also a great option for a healthy dinner.
FAQ for Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer darker meat. Just keep in mind that they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time to reach the proper internal temperature.
Can I Substitute the Zucchini with Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to use other vegetables such as yellow squash, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for different vegetables to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal!
Can This Casserole Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time! Assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled straight from the fridge.
