Chicken Parmesan Casserole

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to a Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Imagine all the flavors of the classic Italian dish packed into one hearty dish, making it not only a delicious choice but also a convenient one. I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when I needed something quick but satisfying for my family dinner. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with mouthwatering aromas and makes everyone gather around the table in excitement.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is more than just a crowd-pleaser; it’s downright brilliant for several reasons. First off, it’s a time-saver. Using rotisserie chicken lets you skip the cooking and shredding steps, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and gooey cheese creates a symphony of flavors that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist.

“This casserole turned out so cheesy and delicious! The whole family went back for seconds.” — Laura, a satisfied home cook.

Moreover, it’s budget-friendly and adaptable; you can customize it with various pasta shapes or sauces to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe delivers.

How to Prepare This Recipe

Ready to make Chicken Parmesan Casserole? The process is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll be doing:

1. Sauté the chicken: Warm the shredded chicken in a skillet with spices for enhanced flavor.
2. Mix the ingredients: Combine pasta, marinara, and cheeses in a bowl.
3. Layer the casserole: Spread the mixture and top it with more cheese.
4. Bake: Let it bake until bubbly and golden brown.

It’s a simple assembly that leads to an incredible dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is quick. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Chicken Parmesan Casserole:

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (using rotisserie chicken is great!).
• 2 cups marinara sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• 2 cups cooked pasta (like penne or rotini).
• 1 tablespoon olive oil.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
• Salt and pepper, to taste.
• Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley.

Feel free to swap the pasta with your favorite variety or add extra veggies for a nutritious boost!

Cooking Steps

Now, let’s dive into how you can make this delectable casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well to blend the flavors.
4. Fold the seasoned chicken into the pasta mixture until well-combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that melty finish.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Best Way to Serve

To truly enjoy the magic of your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread. The crispness of the salad enhances the rich flavors of the casserole, while garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? No problem! You can store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave. If you want to freeze it, cover tightly and store for up to three months. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Pro Chef Tips

• Extra Creaminess: For an even richer flavor, mix in a little ricotta cheese along with the shredded chicken.
• Herb Boost: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish; consider adding fresh parsley or oregano to the cheese topping.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it when you’re ready for a hassle-free dinner.

Creative Twists

Looking to spice things up further? Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Vegetable Boost: Incorporate some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition.
• Kick of Spice: Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick if your family enjoys a little heat.
• Cheesy Delight: Try using different cheese blends, such as provolone or gouda, for a unique flavor profile.

Your Questions Answered

Q: How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
A: You can have this casserole ready in about 15-20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes! If you have frozen cooked chicken, simply thaw it before adding it to the skillet and follow the rest of the recipe.

Q: Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure it’s stored well in an airtight container for up to three months.

By following this guide, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating a cozy experience that your family will cherish. Enjoy the laughter, the deliciousness, and the togetherness that comes with sharing Chicken Parmesan Casserole!

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting Chicken Parmesan Casserole packed with the flavors of the classic Italian dish, perfect for a family dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups cooked pasta (like penne or rotini)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well to blend the flavors.
4. Fold the seasoned chicken into the pasta mixture until well-combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. For even creamier texture, mix in ricotta cheese.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Chicken, Casserole, Italian, Comfort Food, Family Meal