Are you looking for a delicious and healthy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love? Look no further! This chicken casserole recipe with zucchini is a simple, yet satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly easy to make, and offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Veggies: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the diced zucchini and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
Step 3: Combine the Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. This quick dinner idea is perfect served with a side salad or some crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Chicken Zucchini Casserole:
- For extra flavor: Use rotisserie chicken to save time! Simply shred it and add it to the casserole mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it cheesy: Increase the amount of cheese or try different types, such as Monterey Jack or Colby.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots.
- Creamy alternative: Substitute cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs.
- Low-carb: Reduce or omit the bread crumbs.
- One-pan wonder: Use an oven-safe skillet to eliminate the need for transferring the casserole to a baking dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used. Always consult a nutrition calculator for precise data.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 20-25g
This chicken casserole with zucchini is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both easy to prepare and healthy. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your liking, making it a go-to for any occasion. Enjoy!