Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy – No need for breading and frying chicken separately; this casserole simplifies the process.
  • Family-Friendly – A meal that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep it ahead of time and bake when ready.
  • Customizable – Add pasta, veggies, or extra seasonings to suit your taste.
  • Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes just as delicious the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Cooked chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken, shredded or cubed
  • Marinara sauce
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • Butter, melted
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Cooked pasta for a heartier dish

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Chicken – If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook and cube or shred chicken breasts.
  3. Assemble the Casserole – Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Add the chicken pieces evenly over the sauce.
  4. Add Cheese – Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the chicken.
  5. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping – In a small bowl, mix Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  6. Top the Casserole – Evenly spread the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.
  7. Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  8. Serve – Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve on its own or over cooked pasta.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Add Pasta: Mix cooked pasta into the casserole for a complete one-dish meal.
  • Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds.
  • Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Assemble the casserole (without baking) and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes.
  • Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy?

Use cooked chicken and avoid adding too much sauce. Also, bake uncovered to keep the breadcrumbs crispy.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely and drain excess moisture before using.

What’s the best type of chicken for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken is the easiest option, but you can also use grilled or baked chicken breasts.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best cheese for Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, but you can also add provolone or cheddar for extra flavor.

Can I use fresh breadcrumbs instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade breadcrumbs work well. Toast them lightly for extra crunch.

How do I make this dish lower in carbs?

Skip the breadcrumbs or replace them with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

It’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and saucy goodness. It’s an easy, comforting dish that’s great for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With plenty of variations to suit different dietary needs, this casserole is a must-try for any home cook. Enjoy it with pasta or a simple side salad for a complete meal!

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Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a cheesy, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that brings all the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan into a convenient baked casserole. With crispy chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 10min
  • Cook Time: 30min
  • Total Time: 40min
  • Yield: 6servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken (shredded or cubed)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter (melted)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • (Optional) 2 cups cooked pasta for a heartier dish

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Prepare the Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook and cube or shred chicken breasts.
  • Assemble the Casserole: Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Add the chicken evenly over the sauce.
  • Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the chicken.
  • Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  • Top the Casserole: Evenly spread the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.
  • Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  • Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve on its own or over cooked pasta.

Notes

  • Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs .
  • Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
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