Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a simple, one-dish meal that combines all the flavors of a traditional Chicken Parmesan without the need to bread and fry individual chicken breasts. It’s filled with juicy chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and gooey cheese—everything you love about Chicken Parmesan in one easy casserole. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal, so you can enjoy a stress-free dinner after a busy day. The leftovers also taste amazing, making it a great choice for meal prep!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Layer the seasoned chicken pieces over the sauce in the dish, spreading them evenly.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure it is well-coated.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and chopped basil (if using). Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35-45 minutes (25-30 minutes covered, 10-15 minutes uncovered)

Variations

Add pasta: For a complete meal, layer cooked pasta such as penne or spaghetti in the casserole before adding the chicken and sauce.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Use different cheese: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, you can substitute it with provolone, fontina, or even a mixture of Italian cheeses.
Add veggies: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
Spicy version: For a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle them on top before baking.
Chicken thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor and more tender texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well! To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until heated through. If frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-50 minutes, covering it with foil until it is fully heated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh chicken for this casserole. If you’re using frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed and cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it with foil and bake it as directed when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs. Panko gives a crispier texture, but regular breadcrumbs will work too.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also test the chicken by cutting into a piece to make sure it’s no longer pink in the center.

Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra cheese to your liking, whether it’s mozzarella, Parmesan, or any other cheese you enjoy.

Can I make this dish without breadcrumbs?

If you’re not a fan of breadcrumbs, you can skip them entirely or substitute them with crushed crackers or even grated Parmesan for a different texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make it spicier, you can add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle some hot sauce on top of the casserole before baking.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I use marinara sauce with added seasoning?

Yes, using marinara sauce with added herbs and spices will enhance the flavor of the casserole. Just be mindful of the salt content, as some sauces can be quite salty.

How do I make this casserole creamier?

To make the casserole creamier, you can mix in some ricotta cheese or cream cheese along with the mozzarella.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Casserole offers all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan in an easy-to-make, satisfying casserole form. It’s a delicious, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With minimal prep time and tons of room for customization, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds