Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Are you on the hunt for a comforting and delicious recipe that will win over your family without breaking a sweat? Look no further than Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese layered over pasta for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this casserole quickly becomes a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Chicken Parmesan Casserole. For starters, it’s a time-saver; using rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time significantly. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly, providing a rich, hearty meal without costing an arm and a leg. This dish is truly versatile—a hit with kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or even a casual date night at home.

“Absolutely delicious! My kids couldn’t get enough, and I loved how easy it was to prepare. This will definitely be a regular in our meal rotation!”

How This Recipe Comes Together

Creating Chicken Parmesan Casserole is as easy as it is rewarding. With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy this comforting meal in no time. Let’s break down the process: you’ll start by sautéing seasoned shredded chicken, then combine it with cooked pasta, marinara, and cheese before baking it all together into bubbling perfection. Ready to get started?

What You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini are great)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Feel free to switch out the pasta or use different cheeses according to your taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes until everything is warmed through.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is well-coated.
4. Add the seasoned chicken to the pasta mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
5. Pour the casserole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that gooey finish.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Allow to cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a side salad or garlic bread elevates the meal even more. Consider mixing in a fresh green salad for a nice crunch or serving it alongside steamed vegetables to round out the nutrition. If you’re looking for something a little different, try serving it with a side of homemade garlic knots for the ultimate Italian feast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though they may be hard to resist!), you can store Chicken Parmesan Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it prior to baking; it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the chicken mixture.
• Adjust the level of seasoning based on your family’s taste preferences—more Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add an exciting twist!
• To achieve a crunchy topping, broil the casserole for a minute or two before serving.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? There are many ways to personalize this dish. You can swap the chicken for leftover turkey, opt for a meatless version by using roasted vegetables, or try different sauces like pesto for a unique flavor. Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or gouda to change the casserole’s profile.

Common Questions

• How long does it take to prepare? The total time for preparation and cooking is about 50 minutes.
• Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie? Absolutely! Just cook and shred it beforehand, adding a bit more time to your overall prep.
• Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? Yes! Simply replace the chicken with vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms, and ensure your marinara sauce is meat-free.

Now you’re ready to dive into creating this amazing Chicken Parmesan Casserole! Happy cooking!

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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A comforting and delicious casserole made with tender shredded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese layered over pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Author: ayoboyo021gmail-com
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten-Free Option available

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

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

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Adjust seasoning based on taste preferences.