Chicken Zucchini Casserole with Stuffing

Discover the perfect comfort food with this Chicken Zucchini Casserole with Stuffing recipe. Made with tender diced chicken, fresh zucchini, and a creamy sauce, this dish is topped with buttery, golden stuffing for the ultimate crunchy texture. Packed with hearty vegetables like carrots, onions, and bell peppers, it’s an easy-to-make, one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Customize it with your favorite substitutions and enjoy a satisfying, oven-baked casserole that’s as delicious as it is wholesome.

Ingredients:

• 1 (6 oz) package stuffing mix
• 3 cups diced zucchini
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 (10 ¾ oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup (undiluted)
• 2 cups diced cooked chicken breast
• ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped
• ½ white onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, shredded
• ½ cup sour cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Cook the chicken breast, dice into uniform cubes, and set aside.
2. Make the Stuffing Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with melted butter. Reserve ¾ cup of the mixture for the casserole topping.
3. Combine the Casserole Filling:
   • To the remaining stuffing mixture in the bowl, add zucchini, diced chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, red bell pepper, white onion, and shredded carrot.
   • Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Lightly grease an 11 x 7-inch casserole dish with cooking spray (butter-flavored spray works well).
   • Spread the filling evenly into the dish, avoiding over-packing it.
5. Add Topping and Bake:
   • Sprinkle the reserved ¾ cup of stuffing mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crunchy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting, hearty dish with family and friends!

Enjoy this warm and satisfying casserole packed with rich flavors and textures!

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Tips

• Dice the zucchini and chicken uniformly for even cooking and presentation.
• To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts.
• For extra crunch, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap zucchini for yellow squash or a mix of both.
• Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
• Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to the filling for extra creaminess.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare and assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Store cooled casserole portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: What can I use instead of stuffing mix?
A: Crushed crackers, bread crumbs, or homemade stuffing can be substituted for a similar texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy filling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Zucchini Casserole with Stuffing is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures. The wholesome vegetables, tender chicken, and buttery stuffing make it a comforting, satisfying dish for any occasion. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a family favorite that’s sure to please even picky eaters!