Zesty Lemon Chicken Zucchini Casserole

Q: I'm trying to eat healthier. Are there any substitutions I can make to lighten up this chicken zucchini casserole?

Definitely! You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk to reduce the fat content – just be aware the sauce won't be as rich. You could also use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs for the topping and increase the amount of zucchini while reducing the amount of cheese. This dish is like a good episode of "The Great British Baking Show" – adaptable and open to interpretation!

Lemon Chicken Zucchini Casserole Easy Comfort Food

By Mia WestlakeSeptember 26, 2025Updated: September 25, 2025

5.00 (2 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Craving Comfort?

Ever just want something proper comforting? This chicken zucchini casserole hits the spot. Honestly, it's like a warm hug. It's cheesy, creamy, and has that mmm factor.

Casserole Charm

This easy casserole recipe isn't just delicious. It's a chicken and vegetable casserole dream. Think Mediterranean sunshine meets the British kitchen.

It's a quick weeknight dinner idea , ready in under an hour. This dish happily serves six people!

Healthy ish Comfort

This baked chicken zucchini dish is packed with flavor and goodness. Zucchini adds fibre, while chicken is all about the protein.

It is a healthy casserole recipe ! It's great for using up those summer veggies. Plus, that lemon chicken recipe twist makes it something special.

What makes this creamy chicken casserole stand out? It is light, yet rich.

Let's get cooking.

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Shopping List for a Winning Chicken Zucchini Casserole

Okay, so you wanna make my Chicken Zucchini Casserole , huh? Awesome! It's one of my easy casserole recipe staples.

Trust me, it's a game changer. I promise it will quickly became a family favourite like mine!. Let's get down to what you need.

Think of it as a comfort food recipe with a healthy twist!

Main Ingredients

Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). This is crucial. Get the good stuff!
Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed (680g). Fresh is best!
Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g). Don't be shy!
Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g). Freshly ground if you've got it.
Onion: 1 medium , chopped (about 1 cup, 150g). Yellow or white works fine.
Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (about 2 teaspoons). I always add extra!
Zucchini: 3 medium , thinly sliced (about 4 cups, 450g). Firm zucchini is key.
Red Bell Pepper: 1 , chopped (about 1 cup, 150g). Adds a nice sweetness.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml). Makes it creamy.
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml). Low sodium is always a good call.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup , grated (25g). Freshly grated is amazing.
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Lemon chicken recipe MUST!
Italian Herbs: 1 teaspoon , dried (5g).
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (1g). Optional, for a kick!
Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (30g). Gives it that crunch!
Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons (30g). Unsalted is best.
Mozzarella Cheese: 1/4 cup , shredded (25g). Melts beautifully.

Zucchini are the cornerstone of any great zucchini casserole .

Seasoning Notes: Flavor Magic

Italian herbs are a must. They're like the band that makes all the individual instruments sound amazing. Lemon juice brightens it all up.

It cuts through the richness of the cream for a creamy chicken casserole . Red pepper flakes? Totally optional, but adds that oomph if you like a little heat.

If you don't have Italian herbs, a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme works perfectly.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don't need a fancy kitchen for this chicken and vegetable casserole . The basics will do.

Large Skillet or Frying Pan: For sautéing the chicken and veggies.
9x13 inch Baking Dish (23x33 cm): The baked chicken zucchini dish home.
Mixing Bowls: For the sauce and topping.
Cheese Grater: Gotta shred that cheese!
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key.

Don't have a 9x13 inch baking dish? A similar sized one will work just fine!. As long as it fits everything, you're golden.

Honestly, that's all you need for a delicious and healthy casserole recipe . This dish is one of my favourite weeknight dinner ideas .

It's easy, satisfying, and uses up those veggies in the fridge. Happy cooking!

Cooking Method: Nail That Chicken Zucchini Casserole

So, you wanna make a chicken zucchini casserole , eh? Awesome! Honestly, it's way easier than it sounds. Trust me, if I can do it, you definitely can.

I've burned water before, I'm not kidding!. Let's get this easy casserole recipe rollin'! This comfort food recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner ideas .

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row!

First, mise en place , darling! Sounds fancy, but it just means get everything ready. Chop your zucchini , onion, and bell pepper.

Cube the chicken. Shred your cheese. It really is the secret to seamless cooking!. This is a chicken and vegetable casserole that even your kids will enjoy!

Safety First! Wash your hands before and after handling raw chicken. You know the drill.

step-by-step: Casserole Time!

Season your chicken with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper .
Sauté the chicken in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until browned.
Add the onion and garlic. Cook until soft.
Toss in the zucchini and bell pepper. Cook until slightly tender.
Mix the cream sauce (heavy cream, broth, cheese, lemon, herbs).
Pour it over the chicken and veggies. Stir. Then put it in a 9x13 inch baking dish .
Top with breadcrumb mixture.
Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 30- 35 minutes , or until bubbly and golden. Chicken should be 165° F ( 74° C) .

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Casserole Game

Don't overcook the zucchini ! It gets soggy. I swear, it's the biggest casserole sin.

A bit of lemon brightens up the whole thing in this lemon chicken recipe . Use fresh if you can!

The panko breadcrumbs for the topping add crunch. If you overcook you zucchini, the creamy chicken casserole will be soupy.

Wanna make it ahead? Assemble the casserole, but don't bake it. Just cover it and pop it in the fridge.

Add 10 minutes to the baking time. That's what I do when I'm organised (rarely, tbh!).

This chicken casserole recipe can be a lifesaver for those busy days. It's also a great way to sneak in those veggies! And don't forget, there are tons of healthy casserole recipes you can find.

Enjoy your baked chicken zucchini dish !

**Recipe Notes for Your Chicken Zucchini Casserole Masterpiece**

Alright, so you're about to whip up this chicken zucchini casserole . Great choice! Here are a few extra tips to make sure it's a total triumph.

This easy casserole recipe is surprisingly flexible.

Serving Suggestions: Show It Off!

Okay, first impressions matter, right? Plating is key. I love serving this baked chicken zucchini dish straight from the oven in the baking dish.

Makes it feel proper comforting. A sprig of parsley on top adds a pop of colour, or a lemon wedge for the aesthetic!

On the side? A simple green salad cuts through the richness. And if you're feeling fancy, some crusty garlic bread is always a winner.

Perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce! Roasted asparagus goes down well too.

Storage Tips: Leftovers are Your Friend

Okay, so you've got leftovers (if you're lucky!). Honestly, I think this creamy chicken casserole tastes even better the next day.

Pop it in the fridge in an airtight container. It'll keep for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is an option.

Just let it cool completely first, then portion it out into freezer safe containers. It’ll be good for about 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, bake it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.

Or, you know, microwave it if you're impatient like me!

Variations: Make It Your Own!

Want to mix things up? You can switch out the heavy cream for half and-half, or even evaporated milk for a lighter sauce just be aware it won’t be quite as rich.

For a healthy casserole recipe , try using whole wheat panko breadcrumbs!

Seasonal swaps? This is a chicken and vegetable casserole , so get creative. In the autumn, butternut squash works wonders instead of zucchini.

Honestly, it's all about what's fresh and what you fancy! You could even make it a lemon chicken recipe for some zing.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite!

Okay, let's talk about the good stuff. This chicken zucchini casserole is packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the veggies.

Zucchini, in particular, is low in calories and high in fibre. Win-win!

While I haven't done a full nutritional breakdown, it's safe to say this is a pretty balanced comfort food recipe .

Plus, it’s easily adaptable to fit various dietary needs. Consider this an example of my weeknight dinner ideas !

So, there you have it! Your chicken casserole recipe is ready to be unleashed! Don't be scared to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the chicken zucchini casserole ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the point of baking) a day ahead. Just cover it tightly with cling film and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.

Think of it as your own personal Blue Peter "here's one I prepared earlier" moment!

My zucchini always seems to make casseroles watery. How can I prevent my chicken zucchini casserole from being soggy?

Great question! Zucchini is notorious for releasing moisture. Try salting the zucchini slices and letting them sit in a colander for about 30 minutes before cooking. This draws out excess water. Pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the skillet.

A little extra effort here can make all the difference it's the "soggy bottom" test Mary Berry would be proud of you for avoiding!

I'm trying to eat healthier. Are there any substitutions I can make to lighten up this chicken zucchini casserole?

Definitely! You can swap the heavy cream for half and-half or evaporated milk to reduce the fat content just be aware the sauce won't be as rich. You could also use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs for the topping and increase the amount of zucchini while reducing the amount of cheese.

This dish is like a good episode of "The Great British Baking Show" adaptable and open to interpretation!

How long will leftover chicken zucchini casserole last, and how should I store it?

Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or re-bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

It's perfect for a quick lunch or another easy dinner - a proper "waste not, want not" situation!

What else can I add to this chicken zucchini casserole to jazz it up a bit?

Get creative! Some tasty additions could include mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients. A sprinkle of fresh dill or basil after baking can also brighten the dish. Alternatively, try using a different cheese in the topping, like a sharp cheddar or Gruyere, for a more complex flavour.

Consider it your chance to put your own stamp on this classic dish.