Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Chicken Parmesan Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

Growing up, chicken Parmesan was a staple in my household. The comforting blend of tender chicken, savory marinara, and gooey cheese always made for a satisfying meal. But let’s be honest—some nights, we just want an uncomplicated approach without sacrificing flavor. That’s where the Chicken Parmesan Casserole comes in. This crowd-pleaser simplifies the classic dish into an easy, hearty oven-baked casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What sets this recipe apart from the traditional chicken Parmesan is not just its ease of preparation but also its rich flavor that captures the essence of comfort food. This casserole is the perfect marriage of convenience and taste—it’s quick to assemble, budget-friendly, and kid-approved! Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a family brunch, it offers the satisfaction of a classic meal without the fuss.

“My family absolutely loved this casserole! It’s become a weekly staple because it’s so easy to throw together and tastes just like our favorite restaurant dish.” — Happy Home Cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a breeze. Start by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven. You’ll mix the cooked pasta with marinara and chicken, season it well, and top it off with loads of melty cheese. It all comes together in one dish, which makes cleanup a lot easier! Let’s break down the steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups cooked pasta (any type you have on hand)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (great for using up leftovers)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

While these ingredients are all essential for this dish, feel free to get creative! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or rotini, and swap out the chicken for turkey or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian twist.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, distributing evenly.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Best Way to Serve

Serve your Chicken Parmesan Casserole straight from the oven, bubbling with cheesy goodness. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad for a burst of brightness or garlic bread for that perfect Italian touch! For a tangible twist, you can sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for an elegant finish. The warmth and heartiness of the casserole can stand alone, but it doesn’t hurt to have a few sides on hand.

Keeping Chicken Parmesan Casserole Fresh Longer

Storing leftovers? You’re in luck! This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, simply pop it back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you want to make-ahead, you can prepare the casserole and freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Expert Advice

To elevate your casserole even further, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. If you like a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a nice kick. Also, remember that using quality marinara sauce makes a huge difference, so choose one you love!

Creative Twists

Don’t hesitate to get a little adventurous! You could turn this into a buffalo chicken casserole by swapping in buffalo sauce and blue cheese. Or, for a Mediterranean flair, try adding artichokes and olives, substituting feta for the Parmesan. There’s no end to the delicious possibilities!

FAQ

How long does preparation take?

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole takes about 15 minutes for prep and cooks for 25-30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal in under an hour.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Absolutely! Just ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked before shredding it. You might want to adjust the cooking time slightly if using frozen chicken.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking! Just be sure to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before baking to ensure even cooking.

With its comforting flavors and effortless assembly, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole is sure to become a beloved family favorite in your home just as it has in mine. Happy cooking!

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A comforting, easy-to-make casserole that brings the flavors of classic chicken Parmesan to the table without the fuss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked pasta (any type)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, distributing evenly.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Can be frozen before baking for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, comfort food, Italian, weeknight meal