If you’re a fan of the classic chicken parmesan but crave a more convenient and family-friendly option, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the perfect solution. This delicious casserole combines all the flavors of traditional chicken parmesan into a bakeable dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With its rich marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken Layer: Spread the shredded chicken evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Add the Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and spread it out evenly.
Cheese Layer: Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the marinara sauce.
Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, melted butter, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer. Then, top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Tips:
Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
Side Dishes: Serve with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables to complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
Portion Control: Use a spatula to cut into portions for easy serving and to avoid breaking up the casserole.
Add Extra Flavor: A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice touch of flavor if you enjoy a bit of extra kick.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the oven will help maintain the crispy topping.
Avoid Overheating: Be careful not to overheat the casserole when reheating, as this can cause the cheese to become too oily and the breadcrumb topping to lose its crunch.
Serving After Freezing: If you’ve frozen the casserole, it’s best to let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Related Recipes:
- Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- Rotisserie Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
FAQs:
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a delicious, seasoned flavor to your casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Can I substitute the cheeses in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the cheeses based on your preference or what you have on hand. While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional for this dish, you could use provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular seasoned breadcrumbs. Ensure that the marinara sauce you use is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Conclusion:
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Its blend of savory chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheese topped with crispy breadcrumbs makes it an irresistible dish that your family and friends will love. Give it a try, and it might just become your new go-to comfort food!
📖 Recipe:
Print
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This comforting and cheesy Chicken Parmesan Casserole combines all the flavors of classic chicken parmesan in a convenient, bakeable dish. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this easy-to-make recipe features tender shredded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and a golden breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the shredded chicken evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the marinara sauce.
- In a small bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, melted butter, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
For added texture, you can mix in some cooked pasta before baking.
To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
