Mastering The Art Of Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese over pasta. It’s an easy, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or family dinners.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
• 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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Add the seasoned chicken to the pasta mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined.
5. Step 5: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour in the casserole mixture and spread it evenly.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
7. Step 7: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Step 8: Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Step 9: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
• Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheese profile.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the pasta mix for extra veggies.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the cheese from becoming rubbery.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day before baking. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake it fresh when ready.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce well and mix evenly with the chicken and cheese.

Mastering The Art Of Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 121 reviews

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic Italian favorite. Featuring shredded chicken, marinara sauce, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses layered with tender pasta, this dish combines ease and deliciousness. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s baked to bubbly, golden perfection and garnished with fresh herbs for an inviting finish.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Mixture

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken recommended)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Pasta and Cheese

• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini preferred)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s fully heated for baking the casserole.
2. Prepare the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is warmed and well seasoned.
3. Mix pasta and sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until the ingredients are well distributed.
4. Combine chicken and pasta: Add the seasoned chicken from the skillet to the pasta mixture. Mix thoroughly so the flavors meld evenly throughout.
5. Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it uniformly for even cooking.
6. Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the casserole surface to create a delicious golden crust.
7. Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the casserole to heat through and meld flavors.
8. Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty meal!

Notes

• Using rotisserie chicken speeds up preparation and adds flavor.
• You can substitute pasta shapes depending on preference but shorter pasta like penne or rotini works best.
• Covering the casserole during baking prevents the cheese from burning and helps keep moisture inside.
• Letting it rest before serving allows the casserole to set for easier serving.
• Fresh herbs as garnish brighten the dish, but they are optional.

Keywords: chicken parmesan casserole, baked chicken pasta, Italian casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, cheesy chicken pasta