This baked chicken and vegetable casserole is a wholesome, comforting dish brimming with flavor and texture. It layers seasoned chicken breast with a medley of colorful vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, and tomatoes, all held together with creamy eggs and melty cheese. A combination of smoked paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt gives the dish a savory depth, while the crispy, cheesy topping adds irresistible appeal. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even casual dinner gatherings, this dish satisfies every craving without being overly rich. It’s one of those recipes that brings together the heartiness of a casserole with the freshness of farm veggies and the simplicity of baked comfort food.
Preparation, cook, and total times
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 57 minutes (divided)
Total Time: 1 hour 22 minutes
Yield
Serves: 6 hearty portions
Cuisine
Fusion of Mediterranean and Central European homestyle cooking
A full list of ingredients
4 chicken eggs
½ tsp salt
4 tbsp vegetable oil
Black pepper to taste
3 stalks green onions, finely chopped
150 g hard cheese (about 5 oz), grated
1 carrot, grated
4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
Olive oil (for greasing and drizzling)
1 medium zucchini, grated
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 tomato, diced
½ tsp salt
½ tsp dried oregano
2 chicken fillets, diced or thinly sliced
2 additional chicken eggs
½ tsp salt
Black pepper to taste
½ tsp smoked paprika
60 g hard cheese (about 2 oz), grated (for topping)
Step-by-step cooking directions
1. Prepare the vegetable base
In a large mixing bowl, crack 4 eggs and whisk them with ½ teaspoon of salt and a pinch of black pepper. Add the grated carrot, grated potatoes, and chopped green onions. Stir in 150 grams of grated cheese and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Mix everything until well combined.
2. Pre-bake the base
Grease a large baking dish with olive oil and evenly spread the vegetable-egg mixture across the bottom. Flatten gently with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 20 minutes or until lightly golden and set.
3. Sauté the vegetables
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic, then stir in the grated zucchini, diced tomato, and chopped yellow bell pepper. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon oregano. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.
4. Season and prepare the chicken
In a separate bowl, combine the diced chicken fillets with 2 eggs, ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper to taste, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning.
5. Layer the sautéed vegetables
Remove the baking dish from the oven. Spread the sautéed vegetable mixture over the baked vegetable base. Distribute it evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
6. Add the chicken layer
Pour the seasoned chicken mixture over the vegetables. Spread the chicken evenly and gently press down with a spatula.
7. Bake the full casserole
Return the dish to the oven and bake at 180°C (356°F) for 30 minutes. The chicken will cook through and meld with the vegetable layers.
8. Final cheese topping
Sprinkle the remaining 60 grams (2 oz) of grated cheese evenly over the top. Bake for another 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
9. Cool and serve
Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onion, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional information (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 360
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Calcium: 220mg
Iron: 1.7mg
Vitamin C: 22% DV
Vitamin A: 35% DV
The origins and popularity of the recipe
Casseroles have long been a staple in European and American kitchens, dating back to the 19th century when oven-baked one-dish meals grew in popularity due to their convenience and ability to feed large families. This particular casserole blends Mediterranean influences—zucchini, tomato, and oregano—with Eastern European elements like grated potato and onion bases, creating a fusion dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. Its ease, versatility, and heartiness have made it a favorite for families, especially those looking to include more vegetables without sacrificing comfort or flavor.
Reasons why you’ll love the recipe
You’ll fall in love with this casserole for its rich, layered taste, golden cheesy top, and customizable ingredients. It’s an ideal recipe for using up leftover veggies and chicken, and it works great for meal prep. Plus, it’s hearty without being heavy, and both adults and kids enjoy the soft, savory texture and the familiar flavors. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or prepping ahead for guests, this casserole checks all the boxes for ease, taste, and nourishment.
Health benefits
This dish is packed with lean protein from chicken and eggs, which supports muscle repair and keeps you full. It’s loaded with fiber-rich vegetables like zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and potatoes that help with digestion and provide vitamins A and C. The use of hard cheese offers calcium for bone health, while herbs like oregano add antioxidants. Opting for olive oil instead of butter also keeps the fat content on the healthier side, making it a smart choice for balanced eating.
Serving suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad of mixed greens or a tangy cucumber yogurt dip for contrast. It pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or a simple grain like couscous, bulgur, or quinoa. For a heartier meal, you can add a side of roasted sweet potatoes or a vegetable soup starter. It’s also delicious served chilled the next day for lunch, with a drizzle of lemony olive oil on top.
Cooking tips
-
Grate the vegetables finely so they blend well into the base.
-
Press excess moisture out of grated zucchini to avoid a watery texture.
-
Use parchment paper or lightly flour the baking dish to prevent sticking.
-
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and lemon juice ahead of time.
-
Don’t skip the resting time after baking—it helps everything set properly before slicing.
Variations to try
-
Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and add more mushrooms or cooked lentils.
-
Cheesy twist: Mix in crumbled feta or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for extra flavor.
-
Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the chicken mix.
-
Low-carb: Swap the potatoes for cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage.
-
Herb lovers: Try adding thyme, parsley, or rosemary for an herbaceous depth.
Conclusion
This baked chicken and vegetable casserole with cheese is everything a satisfying dinner should be—filling, flavorful, and full of color. With layers of tender chicken, savory sautéed vegetables, and a crisp-cheesy topping, this dish delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite. It’s a great way to sneak more vegetables into your meals and also perfect for customizing based on what you have in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, prepping ahead for the week, or serving guests, this dish is bound to be a new go-to favorite. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back to it!
10 comprehensive FAQ section
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to the final cheese topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze it?
Definitely. Let it cool completely, then wrap in foil and freeze. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat at 180°C (356°F) for 20–25 minutes.
3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or a mix of cheeses all work beautifully.
4. What can I substitute for zucchini?
Try eggplant, shredded cabbage, or even cooked spinach as alternatives.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for the cheesy layer and substitute olive oil-based mayo for richness.
6. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The casserole should be bubbling, and the chicken layer should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). It should also no longer be pink inside.
7. Can I add rice or pasta to make it more filling?
Yes, cooked rice or small pasta like orzo can be added to the base layer for a more filling option.
8. How do I make it more kid-friendly?
Use milder seasonings, chop veggies finely, and use plenty of cheese to keep the texture soft and familiar.
9. What sides go best with this casserole?
Fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully.
10. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Definitely! Just shred it and mix with the egg and seasoning before layering.