Introduction to Chicken Parmesan Casserole
If you’re searching for a hearty and comforting dish to serve your family, look no further than chicken parmesan casserole. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, creating a wholesome meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken parmesan casserole is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser! It’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering both convenience and taste in every bite. Plus, it can easily be customized to suit your family’s preferences. What’s not to love about a dish that brings smiles to the dinner table?
Recipe Details
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cups cooked pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, cooked pasta, garlic powder, and herbs.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips for the Best Texture
For the best texture in your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, make sure to cook your pasta slightly under al dente so it doesn’t become mushy during baking. A high-quality marinara sauce makes a big difference here, keeping the casserole flavorful and nicely saucy without adding any cream. When assembling the dish, mix half of the mozzarella into the pasta and reserve the rest for the top, which helps create a beautifully melted, golden layer. If you prefer your casserole extra cheesy (but not creamy), simply increase the mozzarella instead of adding cream or milk. For that classic Chicken Parmesan finish, place the casserole under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until the cheese develops light browning and bubbly spots.
🍽 What to Serve With This Casserole
This casserole pairs well with a variety of simple sides. Garlic bread is a perfect companion and great for soaking up any extra marinara. A crisp side salad provides freshness, while roasted cauliflower or steamed broccoli offer a veggie-forward balance to the cheesy pasta. Green beans tossed with a little Parmesan also make a delicious, easy side that complements the flavors of the dish without overpowering it.
🔥 How to Reheat
Reheat at 325°F for 10–12 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
If it seems dry, add 2–3 tablespoons of marinara sauce before reheating.
Storage Tips and Variations
This chicken parmesan casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to a month. For variation, try adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or substitute the chicken with zucchini for a vegetarian version.
You’ll also enjoy my Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for a rich, flavorful meal.
Learn more about classic Italian-style dinners on Allrecipes.