When you’re looking for a dish that’s both wholesome and satisfying, this Easy Healthy Chicken Zucchini Casserole is your go-to. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken and fresh zucchini, all baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Get ready to enjoy a nutritious meal that the whole family will love!
Steps
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook about 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts by boiling them in water for 20-30 minutes until they are fully cooked, then shred or cube the meat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of diced zucchini, the cooked chicken, one can of cream of chicken soup, and 1/2 cup of sour cream.
- Melt 1/2 cup of butter and mix it with a box of dry Stove Top stuffing.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the stuffing mixture for the topping, and stir the rest into the chicken and zucchini mixture.
- Transfer the entire mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the reserved stuffing mixture on top to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving, allowing it to set.
Ingredients
- Chicken: Approximately 2.5 cups diced, cooked chicken (equivalent to about 1.5 pounds of boneless chicken breasts).
- Zucchini: Roughly 4-6 cups, diced (around 4 medium zucchini).
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup.
- Stuffing Mix: One 6-ounce box of Stove Top stuffing (or any brand), used dry.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: One 10.5-ounce can.
- Butter: 1/2 cup (melted).
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped.
- Optional Additions: Shredded cheese, grated carrots, and sliced mushrooms.
FAQ
- What is the correct amount of sour cream for the Chicken Zucchini Casserole?
- The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of sour cream, not 12 cups as mistakenly noted.
- Do I need to pre-cook the chicken before adding it to the casserole?
- Yes, the chicken should be cooked before adding it to the casserole to ensure it’s fully cooked and to avoid a gooey texture.
- Can I freeze the Chicken Zucchini Casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze the casserole before cooking. Thaw it before baking and follow the cooking instructions. Be aware that the zucchini might become softer after freezing.
- Do I prepare the Stove Top stuffing mix before adding it to the casserole?
- No, you add the dry stuffing mix directly to the casserole along with the melted butter.
- Can I substitute another ingredient for the stuffing mix if I want a gluten-free option?
- You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute for the stuffing mix.
Tips
- Sour Cream Measurement: Ensure you’re using the correct amount of sour cream, which is 1/2 cup, not 12 cups as mistakenly noted in the article. This will prevent the dish from becoming overly creamy and unbalanced.
- Stuffing Mix Usage: Use the dry stuffing mix combined with melted butter as directed, but do not prepare the stuffing according to the box instructions. This will help maintain the desired texture and flavor profile in the casserole.
- Zucchini Preparation: You don’t need to cook the zucchini before adding it to the casserole. The zucchini will cook adequately in the oven, maintaining a good texture without becoming mushy.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Additionally, for a gluten-free version, you can use rolled oats or crushed gluten-free crackers as a topping instead of traditional stuffing.
Equipment
- Mandoline Slicer – For uniformly slicing zucchini.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish – Essential for baking casseroles.
- Box Grater – To grate cheese or vegetables like carrots.
- Instant Pot or Slow Cooker – If you decide to adapt the recipe for these appliances.
