Zucchini Chicken Casserole Recipe

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Cook Time: 55 minutes

This creamy and hearty casserole combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a crunchy panko topping. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 (8-ounce) zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 2 large peeled carrots, chopped
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 2 (10 1/2 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, tarragon, and basil), plus more for garnish
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken breasts
• 4 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 2 1/2 tablespoons salted butter, melted

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced zucchini, chopped carrots, and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.

Step 4: Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the cooked vegetable mixture into the soup mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.

Step 6: Top the casserole with the shredded Cheddar cheese, ensuring its evenly distributed over the top.

Step 7: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter until fully combined. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the Cheddar cheese is melted, the chicken mixture is bubbling around the edges, and the panko is golden brown.

Step 9: Garnish with additional fresh herbs before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Each serving contains:

• Calories: 480
• Total Fat: 27g (35% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 11g (55% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 151mg (50% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 941mg (41% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 21g (8% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 39g (78% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 10mg (11% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 205mg (16% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (11% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 660mg (14% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Zucchini Chicken Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Its a favorite among home cooks due to its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to be made with readily available ingredients. This dish has grown in popularity over the years, especially among those seeking lighter alternatives to heavier casseroles. But where did this casserole come from, and what makes it so special?

Origin and History

The casserole, as a cooking method, has deep roots in American cuisine, originating in the mid-20th century. The use of the term "casserole" itself dates back to the French, where it referred to both the cooking vessel and the dish made within it. In the United States, casseroles became widely popular during the 1950s, especially as families sought quick and easy ways to prepare meals. The zucchini chicken casserole, specifically, is an example of how cooks have adapted traditional casserole ingredientslike chicken and creamy soupto incorporate fresh vegetables, making it both healthier and more flavorful. It is believed to have gained popularity as people started focusing on using more vegetables in everyday cooking, particularly in the summer when zucchini is abundant.

Regional Variations

The Zucchini Chicken Casserole is typically considered an American dish, but regional variations can be found throughout the country. In the South, for example, casseroles often feature the addition of ingredients like cornmeal or extra cheese. In the Northeast, its not uncommon to add mushrooms or other earthy vegetables to the mix. The recipe itself can be easily modified to fit regional tastes by swapping out herbs, such as using thyme or rosemary in place of tarragon and basil, or adding a sprinkle of cayenne for a little kick. Additionally, some regions might swap the panko breadcrumbs for a more traditional crushed cracker topping, which offers a different texture and flavor profile.

What Makes it Unique?

Compared to similar casserole dishes, the Zucchini Chicken Casserole stands out due to its balance of fresh vegetables and light, creamy texture. Unlike heavier casseroles that rely on more processed ingredients, this dish uses a combination of fresh zucchini, carrots, and onions, offering a lighter, veggie-forward approach. It also incorporates tender, shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor, without the need for additional cooking or preparation. The top is finished off with a crispy layer of panko breadcrumbs and melted Cheddar cheese, which gives it a delicious contrast to the smooth and creamy filling. What truly sets it apart from other casseroles is its freshness, thanks to the inclusion of herbs like parsley, tarragon, and basil.

Where is it Usually Served?

The Zucchini Chicken Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings. Its perfect for a weeknight dinner, especially when youre looking for something quick, filling, and nutritious. Its also an ideal dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings, as it can be easily prepared in advance and serves a large number of people. Due to its comforting qualities, its often seen as a go-to meal for colder months or during the harvest season when zucchini and other vegetables are in peak abundance. This casserole is also a great option for meal prepping, as it holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a convenient option for lunches or dinner leftovers.

Interesting Facts

• The word "casserole" comes from the French word for "saucepan" or "stew pot" and was used to describe both the dish and the cooking vessel itself.
• Though its called a "Zucchini Chicken Casserole," you can swap out zucchini for other vegetables like yellow squash or even eggplant for a different flavor profile.
• Panko breadcrumbs, which are often used in this dish for their light, crispy texture, originate from Japan and are made from bread baked by electric currents, giving them their signature airy texture.
• The inclusion of fresh herbs like parsley, tarragon, and basil in the casserole gives it a distinct fragrance and adds a vibrant flavor, balancing the richness of the cheese and sour cream.
• This casserole is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, making it an efficient and cost-effective meal choice for busy families.

Conclusion

The Zucchini Chicken Casserole is more than just a comforting mealits a reflection of the evolving American kitchen. With its fresh vegetables, shredded chicken, and crispy, cheesy topping, it embodies the balance of tradition and innovation. Whether youre looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a dish to share at a gathering, or a healthy, satisfying casserole for a family meal, the Zucchini Chicken Casserole is sure to become a favorite in any home. With its delicious mix of flavors and textures, this casserole will undoubtedly stand the test of time, just as the beloved casserole genre has done over the years.

FAQ about Zucchini Chicken Casserole Recipe