Why make this recipe
Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan with the ease of a casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. The combination of shredded chicken, marinara sauce, pasta, and lots of cheese creates a tasty meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, saving you time in the kitchen.
How to make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- for garnish fresh basil or parsley (Optional garnish.)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pasta mixture and mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Pour the casserole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole warm right out of the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also offer extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
How to store Chicken Parmesan Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- For extra flavor, add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the pasta mixture.
- If you like things spicy, you can add red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes after baking.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole by using different types of cooked meats, such as turkey or sausage, and switching the kinds of cheese. Try mixing in some ricotta or using a different type of sauce, like Alfredo.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just take it out about 30 minutes before baking to let it come to room temperature.
Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
It’s best to use cooked chicken, as it saves time. If you want to use raw chicken, you should cook it first before adding it to the casserole.
How do I reheat leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can cover it with foil to keep the cheese from browning too much.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
Seasoning & Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- for garnish fresh basil or parsley (Optional garnish.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pasta mixture and mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Baking
- Pour the casserole mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
