Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the flavor of classic chicken Parmesan with the ease of a one-pan meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, gooey cheese, and rich marinara sauce, this casserole is sure to please everyone in the family. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to your tastes!
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- for garnish: fresh basil or parsley (Optional garnish.)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pasta mixture and mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Pour the casserole mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Serve the Chicken Parmesan Casserole warm, right from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also sprinkle extra fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor and presentation.
How to Store Chicken Parmesan Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- For extra flavor, try adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the mixture.
- If you want a crunchy topping, sprinkle some bread crumbs over the cheese before baking.
- Feel free to use any pasta shape you like; this dish is very forgiving!
Variation
You can also make this casserole with different proteins, such as Italian sausage or ground turkey, if you want a change. Additionally, using different types of cheese, like cheddar or provolone, can give it a unique twist!
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it well. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just assemble it, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, you may need to increase the baking time.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
It goes great with side dishes like garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables. These sides help balance the richness of the casserole.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
Seasoning and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- for garnish: fresh basil or parsley Optional garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pasta mixture and mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Pour the casserole mixture into the greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
