Chicken Parmesan Casserole recipe
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole recipe is a comforting and crowd-pleasing weeknight dish that combines the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan in a hearty, oven-baked casserole. With tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, shredded chicken, and a blend of gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy the whole family. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to love, bringing together Italian-inspired flavors in a single, creamy bake.
Whether you’re looking for a recipe to use up leftover chicken or you’re simply in the mood for a cozy meal, this dish has you covered. The shredded chicken and pasta meld beautifully with the Italian seasoning, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. This recipe is flexible, too, allowing you to customize the cheese and sauce quantities to suit your taste.
Perfect for both weeknights and weekend gatherings, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole recipe is also a hit when you need to feed a crowd. Serve it fresh out of the oven, garnished with basil for a pop of color and flavor. Let’s dive into this cheesy, hearty casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Main Ingredients for a Delicious Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Cooked Chicken (1 pound, shredded or diced) – Provides the casserole with hearty protein; rotisserie or leftover chicken works well here.
- Penne Pasta (16-ounce box) – Adds a tender, chewy base to soak up all that marinara goodness.
- Marinara Sauce (1 ½ jars or about 48 ounces) – The flavorful sauce base that ties together the Italian-inspired flavors.
- Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, divided) – Offers a melty, stretchy layer of cheesy goodness both inside and on top.
- Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, divided) – Adds a nutty, savory kick that complements the mozzarella beautifully.
- Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons) – A blend of herbs that enhances the casserole with aromatic, classic Italian notes.
- Fresh Basil, chopped (optional) – For a fresh garnish that adds both color and a hint of herbal brightness.
Simple Steps to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cool water, then set it aside to avoid overcooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, ½ cup of the mozzarella, ½ cup of the Parmesan, and the marinara sauce. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with foil to keep the moisture in.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and discard the foil. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses generously over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven, baking it uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
- For an added touch, garnish with fresh basil before serving if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the melty, saucy goodness!
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Make It Easy with Rotisserie Chicken: For quick prep, use shredded rotisserie chicken. It saves time and brings excellent flavor.
- Boost the Classic Flavor: Substitute breaded popcorn chicken if you want a more traditional chicken Parmesan experience with breaded bites.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Feel free to increase the cheese quantities if you like an extra cheesy casserole.
- Customize the Sauce Level: For a saucier casserole, you can use two full jars of marinara sauce to create a more decadent, moist bake.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
To store any leftovers, transfer the casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions, wrapped tightly, for up to three months. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly heated. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a small splash of sauce or water to keep it moist.
Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite of this Chicken Parmesan Casserole!
Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 16- ounce box penne pasta
- 1 ½ jars about 48 ounces of marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese divided
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Chopped basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cool water, then set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, ½ cup of the mozzarella, ½ cup of the Parmesan, and the marinara sauce. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with foil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Carefully remove the casserole from the oven, discard the foil, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If desired, garnish with chopped basil before serving.
Notes
- For a time-saving option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds ease without sacrificing flavor.
- Breaded popcorn chicken can be substituted for a more classic Chicken Parmesan taste.
- Adjust the amount of cheese based on personal preference.
- For a saucier casserole, feel free to use two full jars of marinara sauce.