I still remember the first time I had Chicken Parmesan Casserole. The inviting aroma of melted cheese and savory chicken filled the kitchen, creating a sense of warmth and comfort. As I took my first bite, I was enveloped in the rich flavors of marinara sauce and pasta, instantly making me feel at home. This dish matters to me because it brings my family together, providing a cozy meal that everyone loves. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special gathering, this casserole makes dinner a joyful experience. The best part is that it’s easy to make and combines all the delicious components of classic Chicken Parmesan in one hearty dish.
why make this recipe
Making Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a great way to enjoy a beloved classic with ease. It’s simple to prepare and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. This dish is not just satisfying; it’s also versatile. You can customize it with different pasta shapes or even add vegetables for extra nutrition. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze. If you’re looking for a comforting dinner that pleases a crowd, this casserole is the way to go.
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
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 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 Chicken Parmesan Casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top for extra flavor and color.
how to store Chicken Parmesan Casserole
To store leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole, let it cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it for a longer time, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
tips to make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- For a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
- If you want a lighter version, you can use whole-grain pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Make sure to properly grease the baking dish to prevent sticking, ensuring easy serving and cleanup.
variation
You can try adding different vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out the chicken for shredded turkey or even use meatballs for a different twist!
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan and mozzarella are traditional choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for different flavors.
3. How do I know when the casserole is done?
Your casserole is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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
- fresh basil or parsley (Optional garnish)
Method
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.
Baking
- Pour the casserole mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish and 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!