INTRODUCTION

If you are looking for a comforting and easy meal that the whole family will enjoy, Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the answer. This dish brings together delicious flavors of chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, all in a hearty casserole form. It is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a cozy meal at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is a dish you can whip up with ease.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is loved for many reasons. First of all, it is very simple to make. You don’t have to worry about complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Most of what you need can be found in your kitchen or at your local grocery store.

Another reason to love it is the flavor. The combination of shredded chicken, marinara sauce, and two types of cheese creates a satisfaction that’s hard to resist. Plus, it is a great way to use leftover chicken, saving both time and food waste.

The casserole is also versatile. You can add vegetables or use different types of pasta depending on your preferences. It’s a one-dish meal, meaning less cleanup afterward. Lastly, it is comforting and hearty, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings.

HOW TO MAKE Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Making Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a straightforward process. Here’s a detailed look at the steps you need to follow to prepare this delicious meal.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before we dive into the ingredients and instructions, you will need some basic kitchen equipment:

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Measuring cups and spoons
Spoon for stirring

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here is a list of the ingredients you will need to create this fantastic Chicken Parmesan Casserole:

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 for garnish (Optional)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Now, let’s get started on making the casserole! Follow these easy steps:

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

Once your Chicken Parmesan Casserole is ready, serve it warm. It can be a meal on its own, but if you want to add more, consider serving it with a green salad or garlic bread. Pour some extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Chicken Parmesan Casserole

If you have leftovers, you can store the casserole easily. Let it cool completely, then cover it and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

You can also freeze Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Wrap it tightly in foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Aside from serving it with a salad or garlic bread, consider these tasty options:

Add steamed broccoli or mixed vegetables for extra nutrition.
Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Pair with a glass of your favorite wine for a special touch.

VARIATIONS

This recipe is flexible. Here are some useful variations you can try:

For a veggie option, replace the chicken with cooked vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
Use different cheeses, such as provolone or cheddar, for a unique flavor.
Swap the marinara sauce with alfredo sauce for a creamier dish.
Add herbs like thyme or oregano for additional flavor.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, but you will need to cook the chicken before adding it to the casserole. You can bake, grill, or boil it until fully cooked and then shred it.
Is it necessary to use rotisserie chicken?
No, rotisserie chicken is an option for convenience. You can use any cooked chicken, including leftovers from another meal.
How do I know if the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. You can check the center with a knife to ensure it is hot throughout.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for a day or two. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chicken Parmesan Casserole

To save time in your busy schedule, consider preparing the casserole ahead of time. You can do the following:

Cook and shred the chicken in advance.
Cook the pasta and mix it with the sauce and cheeses a day before.
Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it.

This way, you can enjoy a homemade Chicken Parmesan Casserole without the hassle of preparing everything on the same day. Simply pop it in the oven, and you will have a warm and delicious meal ready in no time.

In conclusion, Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a versatile and simple dish that delights everyone. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or a gathering of friends, this recipe ticks all the boxes. So why not give it a try today? Happy cooking!

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

A comforting and easy meal featuring shredded chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese baked in a hearty casserole form, perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Total Time 50

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)

Seasonings and Extras

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper
for garnish Fresh basil or parsley Optional

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.
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.

Baking

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!

Notes

For make-ahead tips, cook and shred the chicken in advance, and prepare the pasta and mix it with sauce and cheeses a day before. Assemble and store in the fridge until ready to bake.