Best Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving the comforting flavors of Chicken Parmesan but want an easier, more convenient way to serve it to your family, look no further than this Chicken Parmesan Casserole recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella, all baked together in a casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that captures all the deliciousness of the classic Italian dish with less fuss and more comfort.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried basil. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.
3. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage since it will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add the browned chicken pieces in an even layer.
2. Add More Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
3. Top with Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a bit of olive oil and the optional red pepper flakes. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer. The breadcrumbs will add a crispy topping to the casserole.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
2. Check for Doneness: The chicken should be cooked through, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If needed, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes to get the top extra crispy.

Step 4: Serve the Chicken Parmesan Casserole

1. Let It Rest: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help the cheese set slightly, making it easier to serve.
2. Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the casserole with chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
3. Serve: You can serve the Chicken Parmesan Casserole on its own, or pair it with cooked pasta for a heartier meal. A side salad and some garlic bread would also make excellent accompaniments.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

• Pasta: Serve the Chicken Parmesan Casserole over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine. The sauce and cheese will coat the pasta beautifully.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce.

Additional Toppings

• Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier experience, sprinkle more mozzarella or Parmesan on top just before serving.
• Fresh Herbs: In addition to basil, you can garnish with fresh parsley or oregano.

Tips for Success

Maximizing Flavor

• Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, a good marinara sauce will make a significant difference in the final dish. Opt for one with a rich tomato flavor and minimal added sugar.
• Brown the Chicken: Browning the chicken before baking adds an extra layer of flavor and ensures the chicken is juicy and tender.

Adjusting the Recipe

• Spicier Version: If you like a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that captures all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a one-pan meal. Whether you’re serving it to your family on a busy weeknight or making it for a cozy Sunday dinner, this casserole is sure to become a regular on your menu. With its cheesy topping, savory marinara, and tender chicken, every bite is a taste of Italy in your own kitchen.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They are typically juicier and add more flavor to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze the Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Simply cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used as a substitute. They will still give you a crispy topping.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free version.

Yield: 6

Best Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

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If you're craving the comforting flavors of Chicken Parmesan but want an easier, more convenient way to serve it to your family, look no further than this Chicken Parmesan Casserole recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella, all baked together in a casserole that's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. It's a crowd-pleaser that captures all the deliciousness of the classic Italian dish with less fuss and more comfort.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked, shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, ziti, or rotini work well)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
   
3. Add the Pasta:
   Stir in the cooked pasta until evenly distributed.
   
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
   Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
   
5. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil until the crumbs are evenly coated.
   Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
   
6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
   
7. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
   Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Notes

Chicken: Leftover or rotisserie chicken is ideal for this recipe. You can also use cooked chicken breasts or thighs.

Pasta: Use any short pasta you prefer, but make sure it is cooked al dente before mixing it into the casserole.

Sauce: Feel free to use homemade marinara sauce if you prefer.

Topping: For extra flavor, mix some grated Parmesan cheese into the panko topping before baking.

Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Freezing: The assembled, unbaked casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.