Delicious Chicken Parmesan Casserole baked with cheese and tomato sauce

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the classic flavors of chicken parmesan in a simple and cozy casserole form. It’s perfect for families and gatherings, as it can feed a crowd with minimal effort. This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. With layers of seasoned chicken, marinara sauce, and plenty of cheese, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed (about 4 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cubed cooked chicken with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
  4. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in an even layer over the sauce.
  5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle the minced garlic throughout.
  6. Layer the shredded mozzarella and ¾ cup of the Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce.
  7. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese.
  8. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
  9. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Remove from the oven, let stand for 10 minutes, then garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Serve the Chicken Parmesan Casserole warm, straight from the oven. You can pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings; just make sure to bring the leftovers home!

How to Store Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It should last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole

  • Make sure your chicken is well-cooked and cubed evenly for quick baking.
  • Feel free to use homemade marinara sauce if you have a favorite recipe.
  • You can adjust the amount of garlic and Italian seasoning according to your taste.
  • For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes after baking.

Variation

For a twist, you can add vegetables such as spinach or zucchini to the casserole for extra nutrition. You can also use different types of cheese like provolone or cheddar for unique flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked, frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it before cubing and adding it to the casserole.

What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
You can use any tomato-based sauce, such as pizza sauce or a creamy tomato sauce, as a substitute for marinara.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.