Description
Chicken Zucchini Casserole is a wholesome and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy zucchini, and creamy plant-based cheese with natural gelling agents for a perfect texture. Easy to prepare and full of fresh flavors, it is ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings and can be served as a main dish or alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced or diced
- 4 strips smoked turkey bacon, cut into small strips
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
Aromatics and Flavorings
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Others
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slice the zucchini. Finely chop the garlic and onions, and cut the smoked turkey bacon into small strips. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Chicken and Smoked Turkey Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté smoked turkey bacon until it crisps up slightly, then combine it back with the chicken.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent. Add the zucchini slices and cook just enough to soften slightly while maintaining some bite.
- Combine Ingredients and Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, mix vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), fresh thyme, black pepper, paprika, natural gelling agent, and plant-based cheese. Stir in the cooked chicken, smoked turkey bacon, and sautéed vegetables. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly and top with a little extra plant-based cheese for a golden crust. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to help it set and make slicing easier. Enjoy warm with your favorite sides or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Salt zucchini slices lightly and let them sit to release excess moisture before cooking to prevent a watery casserole.
- Brown chicken until just cooked to keep it juicy after baking.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley added at the end for brightened flavors.
- Layer ingredients evenly in the casserole dish to ensure consistent texture and taste.
- Test your oven temperature to ensure even baking without drying out the casserole.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken, Zucchini, Casserole, Plant-based cheese, Gluten Free, Baked Dish, Family Meal
