Chicken Parmesan Casserole
This chicken parmesan casserole is a cozy, cheesy baked dinner made with tender chicken, pasta, marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella, finished with a golden parmesan breadcrumb topping.
Equipment
- 9x13 baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cheese Grater
Ingredients
Casserole Base
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie chicken works well
- 3 cups cooked pasta penne or rotini
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese Layer
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese optional
Crispy Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish and set it aside.
- Mix the casserole base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Fill the baking dish: Spread the chicken and pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spoon.
- Add the cheese layer: Sprinkle the mozzarella, provolone if using, and parmesan evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Make the crispy topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until lightly coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer for a golden, slightly crisp finish.
- Bake until bubbly: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, the sauce is bubbling around the edges, and the top is lightly golden.
- Rest the casserole: Remove from the oven and let the chicken parmesan casserole rest for 5 minutes so it sets slightly and serves more neatly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy, saucy, comforting bite.