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Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting baked pasta dish made with tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese topped with buttery golden breadcrumbs. It’s an easy family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
  • 12 oz penne, rigatoni, or rotini pasta
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. If using ricotta cheese, gently fold it into the mixture.
  5. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
  8. Mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the cheese.
  9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  11. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient shortcut.
  • Substitute provolone, fontina, or an Italian cheese blend for the mozzarella if desired.
  • Add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or Italian sausage for extra flavor.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Add a spoonful of marinara sauce when reheating if the casserole seems dry.

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