Ultimate Chicken Parmesan Casserole: Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Chicken Parmesan is a classic comfort food, but sometimes you just don’t have the time for all the breading, frying, and layering. That’s where this Chicken Parmesan Casserole comes in! It’s all the delicious flavors you love, baked into one easy-to-assemble dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is guaranteed to be a family favorite. It’s cheesy, saucy, and incredibly satisfying.
## Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Casserole
* **Easy to Make:** Skip the breading and frying! This casserole comes together quickly with minimal effort.
* **Family-Friendly:** Everyone loves Chicken Parmesan, and this casserole version is no exception.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your liking by adding vegetables or using different types of cheese.
* **Make-Ahead Option:** Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
* **Comfort Food:** It’s the perfect warm and comforting meal on a chilly evening.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Chicken:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. You can also use chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Pasta Sauce:** Use your favorite jarred pasta sauce or homemade sauce. Marinara sauce works well, but you can also use a tomato-basil or arrabbiata sauce.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** Shredded mozzarella cheese is essential for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory flavor.
* **Egg:** The egg helps bind the breadcrumb mixture together.
* **Breadcrumbs:** Italian breadcrumbs provide a crispy topping.
* **Italian Seasoning:** Adds a boost of flavor to the chicken and breadcrumb mixture.
* **Garlic Powder:** Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
* **Olive Oil:** Used for drizzling over the breadcrumb topping.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Cooked Pasta:** Any type of cooked pasta will work. Penne, spaghetti, rotini, or ziti are all great choices. About 1 pound of dry pasta, cooked according to package directions.
## Equipment Needed
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Large skillet
* Mixing bowls
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Colander (for draining pasta)
## Step-by-Step Instructions with Photos (Optional)
**(Add actual images in your blog post here for each step. These are just text descriptions to illustrate the points where you’d include photos)**
1. **Preheat oven and prepare baking dish:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. (Photo: greased baking dish).
2. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside. (Photo: Cooked and drained pasta).
3. **Prepare the Chicken:** Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. (Photo: Chicken cubes being cooked in the skillet).
4. **Make the Breadcrumb Topping:** In a medium bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine. (Photo: Breadcrumb topping ingredients mixed together).
5. **Assemble the Casserole:** In the greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of pasta sauce. Add the cooked pasta, then top with the cooked chicken. Pour the remaining pasta sauce over the chicken and pasta. (Photo: Layers of pasta, chicken, and sauce in the baking dish).
6. **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. (Photo: Mozzarella cheese sprinkled over the casserole).
7. **Top with Breadcrumbs:** Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mozzarella cheese. Drizzle with olive oil. (Photo: Breadcrumb topping sprinkled on the casserole).
8. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. (Photo: Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole).
9. **Let it Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. (Photo: Sliced and served Chicken Parmesan Casserole).
## Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Casserole
* **Don’t overcook the chicken:** Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink inside.
* **Use high-quality pasta sauce:** The sauce is a key component of this casserole, so use a sauce that you enjoy.
* **Grate your own cheese:** Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a better flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
* **Don’t skip the breadcrumb topping:** The breadcrumb topping adds a delicious crispy texture to the casserole.
* **Adjust seasonings to taste:** Feel free to add more or less of any of the seasonings to suit your preferences.
## Variations and Substitutions
* **Add Vegetables:** Add sauteed vegetables such as onions, peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the casserole.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Substitute provolone, ricotta, or asiago cheese for the mozzarella or Parmesan.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Use Ground Chicken or Turkey:** Substitute ground chicken or turkey for the chicken breasts.
* **Add Spinach:** Stir in some fresh or frozen spinach for added nutrients.
* **Gluten-Free Option:** Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
## Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:
* A simple green salad
* Garlic bread
* Steamed vegetables
* Roasted asparagus
## Make-Ahead Instructions
You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, simply add a few minutes to the baking time. You may need to cover the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent the breadcrumb topping from burning.
## Storage and Reheating Instructions
* **Storage:** Store leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
## Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 25 minutes
### Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 pound pasta (penne, spaghetti, rotini, or ziti), cooked according to package directions
* 24-26 ounces pasta sauce (marinara or your favorite)
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
* 1 large egg, beaten
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
* Salt and pepper to taste
### Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. In a medium bowl, combine Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of pasta sauce. Add the cooked pasta, then top with the cooked chicken. Pour the remaining pasta sauce over the chicken and pasta.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
7. In the bowl with the breadcrumbs add the beaten egg and stir until the breadcrumbs are moistened. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mozzarella cheese. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 450-550 per serving (estimated)
* Protein: 35-45g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Fat: 15-25g
*Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## What to serve with Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
* **Garlic Bread:** A classic pairing that complements the flavors of the casserole perfectly. The warm, garlicky bread is ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Side Salad:** A fresh green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. A simple vinaigrette dressing adds a touch of acidity.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are healthy and flavorful side dishes that go well with Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
* **Steamed Green Beans:** A quick and easy side dish that adds a pop of color and freshness to the meal. A squeeze of lemon juice enhances the flavor of the green beans.
* **Caprese Salad:** This classic Italian salad features fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. It’s a light and flavorful option that complements the richness of the casserole.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting and satisfying side dish. A dollop of butter or sour cream adds extra richness.
* **Polenta:** Creamy polenta is a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of toppings. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil enhances the flavor of the polenta.
* **Italian Breadsticks:** Warm, crusty breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the sauce of the Chicken Parmesan Casserole. They’re a simple and satisfying addition to the meal.
## Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using pre-cooked chicken is a great way to save time when making Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Here’s how you can incorporate it:
* **Rotisserie Chicken:** Shredded rotisserie chicken is an excellent option. It’s already cooked and seasoned, adding flavor to the casserole. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the casserole as instructed in the recipe.
* **Leftover Grilled or Baked Chicken:** If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, you can use it in this recipe. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the casserole. This is a great way to use up leftovers and reduce food waste.
* **Canned Chicken:** Canned chicken can also be used, although it may not have as much flavor as fresh or rotisserie chicken. Drain the chicken well and add it to the casserole.
**Important Considerations:**
* **Seasoning:** If using pre-cooked chicken, taste it before adding it to the casserole. You may need to adjust the seasoning to ensure the casserole has the right flavor.
* **Moisture:** Pre-cooked chicken can sometimes be drier than freshly cooked chicken. To prevent the casserole from being too dry, you may want to add a little extra pasta sauce or chicken broth.
* **Heating:** Since the chicken is already cooked, you don’t need to cook the casserole for as long. Reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
## Enjoy Your Chicken Parmesan Casserole!
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. With its easy preparation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting, and cheesy meal!