Description

Chicken Parmesan Casserole brings all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan into a convenient and hearty casserole form. This dish is packed with juicy chicken, marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, making it the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual get-togethers, offering a satisfying meal without the hassle of breading and frying individual chicken breasts.

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)

½ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 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’s 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. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired.

Notes

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 accommodate dietary restrictions.
Different Cheese: Substitute mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or a mixture of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle them on top before baking.

Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 30min
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American