The Chicken Parmesan Casserole brings the beloved flavours of classic Italian chicken parmesan into an easy, comforting bake. This dish combines tender chicken, marinara sauce, pasta, and melted cheese for a family-friendly dinner that’s rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and saucy goodness, making it a go-to comfort meal for busy nights.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole:
Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers, this casserole is a simplified version of the traditional Italian-American favorite. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, it turns the timeless chicken parmesan into a cozy baked masterpiece—no frying required. It’s the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and comfort in one dish.
History of Parmesan Casserole:
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, originated from Italian immigrants in the United States. Inspired by eggplant parmesan, they swapped the eggplant for chicken cutlets and added tomato sauce and mozzarella. Over time, it became a staple of Italian-American cuisine. The casserole version was later developed to simplify the preparation process while keeping the authentic flavors intact. Today, Chicken Parmesan Casserole remains one of the most popular and comforting baked dishes in modern kitchens worldwide.
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Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium baking dish lightly.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the cooked pasta on the bottom of the dish. Add shredded chicken on top.
- Add Sauce: Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken and pasta.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the sauce layer.
- Add Crunch: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture on top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place in the oven for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top turns golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation and extra flavour.
- You can make this ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
- Substitute zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for a lighter version.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Tips for Chicken Parmesan:
- Toast breadcrumbs lightly before adding for extra crunch.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a richer, creamier texture.
- Don’t overbake, as it can dry out the chicken.
- Pair with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Add extra Parmesan on top for a crispy, cheesy crust.
FAQs for Casserole:
Q: Can I use uncooked chicken?
No, it’s best to use pre-cooked or leftover chicken to ensure even baking.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Yes, assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen when ready to serve.
Q: What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni holds the sauce and cheese perfectly.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with breaded eggplant or roasted vegetables.
Q: How do I make it crispier?
Broil for 2–3 minutes after baking for a perfectly golden crust.
Conclusion:
The Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the perfect marriage of traditional Italian flavours and modern convenience. With layers of tender chicken, tangy marinara, and melted cheese, it offers a hearty and satisfying experience that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this cheesy, saucy, and crispy casserole will always steal the show.