Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Introduction:
Enjoy a comforting twist on a classic Italian favorite with this Chicken Parmesan Casserole! Layers of tender chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese create a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners. This casserole combines the beloved flavors of Chicken Parmesan into a convenient, one-pan meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting and hearty: Rich and satisfying with layers of cheese and savory sauce.
• Simple preparation: Minimal prep work and straightforward assembly.
• Family-friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• One-pan meal: Easy cleanup with everything baked in a single dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti)
• 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or coat it with non-stick spray.

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• If using leftover or rotisserie chicken, shred or cube it into bite-sized pieces. If cooking fresh chicken, season with salt and pepper, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, then shred or cube.

1. Mix the Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, and cooked pasta. Stir to combine. Season with dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

1. Assemble the Casserole:

• Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

1. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:

• In a small bowl, mix the Italian-style breadcrumbs with olive oil until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.

1. Serve:

• Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Cheese: Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• Pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking in the casserole.
• Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for a quick and easy option.

Recipe Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Extra Flavor: Add a layer of sautéed onions or bell peppers to the chicken mixture for added flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad or Caesar salad for a fresh accompaniment.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for extra nutrition.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Special Equipment:

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for this casserole.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the ingredients.

FAQ:

• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  Yes, you can use cheeses like provolone or cheddar in place of or in addition to mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it until ready to bake. It can also be frozen for later use.
• Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
  Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce will add a fresh and personalized touch to the dish.

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes for mixing and assembling the casserole.

Cook Time:

• 30 minutes for baking.

Total Time:

• 45 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 7g

Print

Closing Notes:
Have you tried making this Chicken Parmesan Casserole? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your casserole creations in the comments below and tag us on social media with your delicious dishes. Stay tuned for more easy and comforting recipes!