If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s easy to pull together yet impressively delicious, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Layers of tender shredded chicken bathed in rich marinara, topped with two kinds of melty cheeses and a perfectly crisp breadcrumb topping, come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor. It’s like all the best parts of classic Chicken Parmesan transformed into a cozy, family-friendly casserole that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe shines because it relies on simple, essential ingredients that each bring a unique touch—whether it’s the tangy depth of marinara, the creamy stretch of mozzarella, or the crispy, buttery breadcrumb topping. These ingredients work harmoniously to deliver texture, flavor, and that irresistible golden crust.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The hearty base providing protein and substance.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Adds bright, tomato-rich flavor that keeps the dish juicy.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into gooey, dreamy layers.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Brings a sharp, nutty taste for complexity.
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Creates the satisfying crunch on top.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Ensures the breadcrumbs brown perfectly with richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds fragrant herbs to tie everything together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish): Offers a fresh, bright finish when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to make sure the casserole doesn’t stick and to help with even cooking. Taking these simple steps upfront ensures your casserole bakes perfectly every time.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken
Spread the shredded cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This forms a meaty foundation that balances the rich marinara and cheese layers, making each bite satisfyingly full-bodied.
Step 3: Add the Marinara Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and spread it out evenly. This bright, tangy layer keeps the casserole moist and infuses it with that classic Italian flavor we all love.
Step 4: Sprinkle the First Cheese Layer
Scatter half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheeses over the sauce. This combo serves as a luscious, gooey barrier that melts beautifully under the breadcrumb topping.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, mix the seasoned breadcrumbs with melted butter, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until all the crumbs are coated evenly. This simple mixture will give the casserole an irresistible crunchy golden top.
Step 6: Layer the Breadcrumbs and Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer, then finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This layering technique ensures that you get both creamy cheese and crunchy topping in every slice.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake just until the casserole is bubbling and the breadcrumb topping is beautifully browned. This signals the perfect meld of flavors and textures ready to be enjoyed.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, garnish with fresh chopped basil if you like, then allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This lets everything settle so you get clean slices and full flavor in every bite.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the perfect garnish for this casserole, adding a pop of color and a touch of herbal brightness that beautifully contrasts the rich, cheesy layers.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. The freshness of greens balances the rich casserole, while warm bread is ideal for soaking up any extra marinara sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a stylish individual portion or layer it over cooked pasta in a large serving dish for a family-style presentation. Either way, it’s sure to steal the show on your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the cheese melty and the breadcrumb topping crispy.
Freezing
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe freezes well—just wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly again, which helps revive the crispy top.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
You can, but for this recipe, pre-cooked chicken works best because it ensures even cooking and the right texture in the casserole. If using raw chicken, bake or poach it first and shred before assembling.
What type of marinara sauce should I use?
Choose a good quality marinara sauce that’s rich and flavorful but not too watery. Homemade or store-bought both work fine, just pick one you enjoy eating on its own for best taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with cooked vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version that still has plenty of flavor.
Is there a way to make the breadcrumb topping gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the regular seasoned breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and the dish will still have that wonderful crunch topping without gluten.
How can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Mix in sautéed veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or onions into the marinara layer to boost nutrition and flavor without compromising that classic Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe taste.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is a shining example of comfort food done right—simple ingredients combining in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a family or want an easy yet impressive dinner, this casserole delivers every time. Give it a try and watch it become one of your kitchen staples for cozy meals and happy memories.
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Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic Italian dish, combining tender shredded chicken with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Baked to golden perfection, it makes an easy and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Cheeses
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Breadcrumb Topping
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Chicken Layer: Spread the shredded cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to create the base layer of the casserole.
- Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken layer and spread it out evenly, coating the chicken thoroughly for flavor and moisture.
- Add Cheese Layers: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the marinara sauce to create a rich, cheesy layer.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine seasoned breadcrumbs with melted butter, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated for a flavorful crust.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer, adding a crunchy texture to the casserole.
- Top with Remaining Cheese: Add the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top of the breadcrumbs to ensure a gooey, melted cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top turns golden brown, indicating it is cooked through and ready.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired, and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes to the marinara or breadcrumb mixture.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make this dish gluten free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
