Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining all the beloved flavors of Chicken Parmesan into a convenient, easy-to-make casserole. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks. With layers of crispy chicken, marinara sauce, pasta, and lots of melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 pound pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Dip the chicken pieces in olive oil, then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Add a layer of cooked pasta, followed by a layer of the cooked chicken. Sprinkle with minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the top, then sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Conclusion
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors in a convenient casserole form. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly! You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even make a vegetarian version by using eggplant or zucchini slices instead of chicken.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce in the marinara sauce. Using a spicy marinara sauce can also increase the heat level.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like diced tomatoes, spinach, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Chicken Parmesan Casserole with your friends and family! 🍗🧀🍝
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!