Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe: A Cheesy Delight
Introduction
If you’re a fan of the classic Chicken Parmesan but crave the comfort of a casserole, then the Chicken Parmesan Casserole is your culinary dream come true. This dish combines tender chicken, zesty marinara sauce, al dente pasta, and layers of gooey cheese into a satisfying and heartwarming meal. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this cheesy delight that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
Table of Contents
- A Fusion of Flavors: Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Gathering Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need
- Starting Strong: Preparing the Chicken
- Layer by Layer: Assembling the Casserole
- Cheese Lover’s Paradise: Mozzarella Magic
- Baking Brilliance: Cooking the Casserole
- Serving with Style: Garnishes and Accompaniments
- A Healthier Twist: Making It Light
- FAQs About Chicken Parmesan Casserole
A Fusion of Flavors: Chicken Parmesan Casserole
The Chicken Parmesan Casserole brings together the soul-satisfying elements of two beloved dishes: Chicken Parmesan and classic casserole comfort. It’s a marriage of tender protein, rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and the warmth of Italian spices.
Gathering Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need
- Chicken breasts (2, boneless and skinless)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup)
- Eggs (2, beaten)
- Bread crumbs (1 cup)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Marinara sauce (2 cups)
- Cooked pasta (2 cups, penne or spaghetti)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Starting Strong: Preparing the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with bread crumbs. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the breaded chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice into thin strips.
Layer by Layer: Assembling the Casserole
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Top with half of the cooked pasta, followed by a layer of sliced chicken. Pour more marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring an even coverage.
Cheese Lover’s Paradise: Mozzarella Magic
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken. This gooey layer will melt into cheesy perfection as the casserole bakes.
Baking Brilliance: Cooking the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving with Style: Garnishes and Accompaniments
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve portions of the Chicken Parmesan Casserole alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread.
A Healthier Twist: Making It Light
For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat bread crumbs and opting for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You can also use part-skim mozzarella cheese and leaner cuts of chicken to reduce the calorie count.
FAQs About Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs can work well, and they often offer a slightly juicier result.
Q2: Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q3: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
A: Definitely. Choose a good-quality marinara sauce or use your favorite homemade recipe.
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze individual portions of the casserole. Make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing in a resealable freezer bag.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can layer in sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or even lightly steamed broccoli for added flavor and nutrients.
Conclusion
Indulge in the comforting embrace of the Chicken Parmesan Casserole, where tender chicken, pasta, marinara sauce, and a blanket of melted cheese unite in a single dish. This recipe takes the essence of Chicken Parmesan and transforms it into a cheesy, gooey, and utterly satisfying casserole that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether for a family meal or a potluck dinner, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite.
Source: thecozycook.com
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars recipe
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet, nutty flavor of pecan pie. These bars are the perfect dessert for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you want to impress your guests with a delightful treat.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs about 18 full size grahams
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- For the cheesecake layer:
- 2 packages cream cheese, softened 8 ounce each
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the pecan pie layer:
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
Line a 13×9 baking dish with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a food processor, pulse graham crackers with sugar until fine crumbs. Add in melted butter and pulse until combined. Press into bottom of baking dish, firmly, using the palm of your hand (or bottom of a cup). Set aside.
For the cheesecake filling, beat cream cheese with sugar, eggs, and vanilla using the whisk attachment of an electric mixer. Beat until fluffy and smooth (about 3-5 minutes). Pour over graham crust. Set aside.
For the pecan pie layer, heat brown sugar, corn syrup, cream, butter and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Stirring constantly, boil for 1 full minute. Remove from heat and add in vanilla and chopped pecans. Allow to cool slightly then pour slowly over cheesecake layer, using a spoon to pour it over so it doesn't sink to the bottom.
Bake bars in a 350 degree oven for 35 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours, or overnight. Slice and enjoy