Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole takes everything you love about the classic dish crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheese and turns it into a simple, bake-and-serve meal. No breading or frying required! It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works great)
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup panko or Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prepare
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Mix the Casserole Base
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the cooked pasta and mix until everything is well coated.

4. Assemble the Casserole
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

5. Prepare the Crispy Topping
   In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle over the cheese layer for that signature crunchy finish.

6. Bake to Perfection
   Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.

7. Garnish & Serve
   Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Casserole:

• Use rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time.
• For extra crunch, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes.
• Make it ahead! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Key Takeaways:

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a stress-free way to enjoy a beloved Italian classic. With tender chicken, cheesy layers, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite!