Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Dinner just got a whole lot cheesier, and we’re here for it!
Have you ever dreamed of a dish that combines savory chicken, rich marinara, and oozing cheese in one cozy casserole? Enter Chicken Parmesan Casserole! It’s a quick, one-pan meal that’s creamy, comforting, and practically irresistible. One bite and you’ll be hooked—perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want to treat yourself.
Why make this recipe
Why should Chicken Parmesan Casserole be your next go-to? For starters, it’s all about easy clean-up—just one dish means fewer dishes to wash. Plus, it’s family-friendly; kids and adults alike will love its cheesy goodness. And let’s not forget the budget-friendly aspect; you can whip up this delicious dish without breaking the bank. 🍽️
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 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
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For garnish: fresh basil or parsley (Optional)
Directions
Follow these easy steps to cheesy perfection:
- 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 a 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, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to make Chicken Parmesan Casserole (Overview)
Making this casserole is as simple as 1-2-3! Start by heating the chicken and seasonings in a skillet to give it some flavor love. Combine it with pasta, sauce, and cheese, and you’re halfway there! Pour everything into a baking dish, sprinkle more cheese on top (because why not?), and let the oven work its magic. Pro tip: Don’t skip letting it cool a bit before digging in—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
How to serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ready to plate up? This Chicken Parmesan Casserole looks gorgeous with its bubbling, golden cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Pair it with a green salad for some crunch or garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that marinara goodness. Just think of the comforting aromas wafting through your kitchen—who wouldn’t want a plate of this on their dinner table? 😍
How to store Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Got leftovers? No problem! This casserole keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the oven for a few minutes until it’s warm and inviting. Homemade convenience at its best!
Tips to make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Here are some quick insider tricks to elevate your casserole game:
- Use rotisserie chicken for ultra-speedy prep.
- If you want an extra cheesy crunch, broil it for a minute after baking.
- Swap marinara with pesto or alfredo sauce for a fun twist.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it only needs to be al dente since it will bake longer.
- Experiment with your favorite cheeses—insert mozzarella, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of feta for zing!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the chicken for zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian vibe, or you can add spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. A splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add some excitement to the flavor too!
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. What’s a good substitute for pasta?
Try using zucchini noodles for a low-carb option or any gluten-free pasta you love.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping and storing in an airtight container.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- 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 a greased 9x13-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, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
