Description
A creamy, savory chicken zucchini casserole combining ground chicken, grated zucchini and carrots, and a flavorful blend of spices, topped with melted cheddar cheese. This hearty baked dish offers a comforting, mildly tangy flavor profile with cheesy richness, perfect for a wholesome family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 11-12 ounce (300 g) ground chicken
- 1 medium egg
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 pound zucchini, grated
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3-4 tablespoons sour cream, or more as needed
- 1 ½ cup Cheddar or Colby Jack Cheese
Seasonings & Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste + extra 1 teaspoon salt for zucchini draining
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb spice, or a mix of dried oregano, garlic, thyme
Instructions
- Drain the Zucchini: In a medium bowl, grate the zucchini and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Set aside for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess water. After the resting time, use a strainer and spoon or wrap the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze tightly to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained zucchini along with ground chicken, grated carrot, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, cracked black pepper, salt, and Italian herb spice. Mix thoroughly using a spatula or your hands until well combined.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly spray a 9×13 inch or slightly smaller baking dish with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into the dish and level the top with a spatula.
- Add Sour Cream Layer: Dollop the sour cream evenly on top of the mixture to add creaminess and moisture to the casserole.
- Bake First Stage: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 minutes, allowing the casserole to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top, then return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the casserole with fresh parsley, scallions, and an extra crack of black pepper if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Flavor: Enjoy a creamy, savory, mildly tangy flavor with earthy zucchini and carrot notes balanced by cheesy richness.
- To Store: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 400°F with optional extra cheese until warmed through.
- To Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it for later reheating or assemble ingredients separately for convenience.
