Incredible Chicken Parmesan Casserole: A Family Favorite

Introduction

If you love the flavors of classic chicken Parmesan but want a quicker, more convenient way to enjoy it, Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the perfect solution. This dish brings together tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and crispy breadcrumbs—all baked to perfection in one easy casserole. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy, and it’s perfect for busy nights when you crave something delicious without the hassle of frying individual chicken pieces. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only simple ingredients and a little bit of time in the oven.

Table of Contents

History and Background of Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Chicken Parmesan, or “Chicken Parmigiana,” has roots in Italian American cuisine, traditionally featuring breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Over time, this beloved dish has evolved in various forms, from sandwiches to casseroles. The casserole version became popular as an easy, one-dish meal that allows home cooks to combine the comforting flavors of chicken Parmesan without the extra effort. By layering the chicken, pasta, sauce, and cheese, Chicken Parmesan Casserole simplifies the process while keeping all of the delicious, signature flavors intact. It’s now a staple in many households, loved for its ability to feed a crowd and its irresistible, cheesy goodness.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan Casserole

1. Convenient One-Dish Meal: Unlike traditional chicken Parmesan, which requires breading and frying individual pieces of chicken, this casserole version combines all of your favorite ingredients in one baking dish, making it simple to prepare and clean up.
2. Family-Friendly: With tender chicken, melty cheese, and pasta, this casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
3. Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein, carbs, and plenty of gooey cheese, Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a filling meal that will keep everyone satisfied.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prep or making ahead of time. You can assemble it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
5. Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes. Swap out the pasta for another type, add extra vegetables, or even make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Casserole

To make this Chicken Parmesan Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 ounces penne pasta (about 4 cups dry pasta): The base of the casserole, providing a hearty foundation.
• 2 cups cooked shredded or cubed chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own chicken breasts or thighs.
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce: A rich, flavorful tomato sauce that brings the classic chicken Parmesan taste.
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds extra flavor and moisture to the casserole.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Essential for that gooey, melty texture.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor to complement the mozzarella.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish a fragrant, aromatic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat to balance the richness of the cheese and sauce.
• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping that gives a satisfying crunch to the casserole.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and/or basil (optional): Garnish to add a burst of color and fresh flavor.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, 2 cups marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), 1 cup mozzarella cheese, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup marinara sauce, spreading it as evenly as possible.
5. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs: After 30 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and carefully take off the foil. Sprinkle the casserole with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, and panko breadcrumbs.
7. Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley and/or basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Casserole

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s an easy way to add flavor and cut down on prep time.
2. Make it Crispy: For extra crunch, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just be sure to watch it closely so the breadcrumbs don’t burn.
3. Add Extra Veggies: For a more balanced meal, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the casserole mixture. This adds flavor and nutrients without compromising the dish’s richness.
4. Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

Serving Ideas for Chicken Parmesan Casserole

1. Garlic Bread: Serve this casserole with crispy, buttery garlic bread for the perfect pairing. The bread soaks up the extra marinara sauce, making it even more delicious.
2. Side Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole. Try arugula or spinach with a simple balsamic dressing for a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli complement the casserole and add a healthy, colorful touch to your meal.
4. Pasta Variations: You can swap the penne pasta for another variety like rotini, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Each type of pasta will bring a slightly different texture to the dish.
5. Wine Pairing: Serve with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a medium-bodied Chianti to complement the savory flavors of the casserole.

Storage Advice and Shelf Life

1. Refrigeration: Leftovers of Chicken Parmesan Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure it has cooled to room temperature before storing.
2. Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven will help maintain the crispy topping.
3. Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake from frozen for about 60 minutes. Then, remove the foil, add the cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.

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FAQs about Chicken Parmesan Casserole

1. What are the ingredients for chicken parmesan?

Traditional chicken Parmesan ingredients include breaded chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. For the casserole version, pasta is added along with these classic ingredients.

2. What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and chicken parmesan?

Both terms refer to the same dish, though “parmigiana” is the Italian term, while “parmesan” is more commonly used in the U.S. The dish features breaded, fried chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.

3. What is the secret to crispy chicken parmesan?

To achieve crispy chicken in the classic version, the chicken should be breaded and fried until golden brown. For casserole versions, you can sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top before baking to achieve a crispy finish.

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Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Casserole combines all the flavors of the classic dish with added convenience. This easy, one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights and makes a great family-friendly dinner. With layers of tender chicken, pasta, gooey cheese, and a crispy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re making it for the first time or the hundredth, this casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.

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