Zucchini Chicken Casserole

Zucchini Chicken Casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This casserole is perfect for utilizing the abundance of summer zucchini and creating a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy. With its blend of flavors and textures, including juicy chicken, savory cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs, this dish is both satisfying and delicious. Easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings, Zucchini Chicken Casserole is a versatile recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
   • Place the sliced zucchini in a colander and sprinkle lightly with salt.
   • Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the zucchini slices.
   • Spread half of the shredded chicken over the zucchini.
   • Sprinkle half of the chopped onion and half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, chicken, onion, and cheddar cheese.
   • Pour the cream of chicken mixture evenly over the top.
5. Add the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well combined.
   • Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
   • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the breadcrumbs.
6. Bake the Casserole:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
   • Serve warm.

Enjoy your comforting and delicious Zucchini Chicken Casserole, perfect for any occasion!