1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer Zucchini: Spread a layer of zucchini slices on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Chicken and Rice: Spoon the cooked chicken and onions evenly over the zucchini. If using, add the cooked rice over the chicken layer.
- More Zucchini: Place another layer of zucchini slices over the chicken and rice.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour Over Casserole: Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the layers in the baking dish.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchini is tender.
6. Serve:
- Garnish: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve the Zucchini and Chicken Casserole warm, and enjoy this comforting and delicious meal with your family.
Tips for Success:
- Uniform Slices: Slice the zucchini evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Pre-Cooked Rice: Use pre-cooked rice to save time and ensure it absorbs the flavors of the casserole.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more herbs or spices as desired.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor twist.
Conclusion: Zucchini and Chicken Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh zucchini, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition!