Here is a simple and tasty Chicken Parmesan Casserole you can make at home.
introduction
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is easy and filling. It uses cooked chicken, pasta, and cheese. You can make it fast with leftovers or rotisserie chicken. For other simple chicken ideas, see this easy chicken crock pot recipes.
why make this recipe
- It cooks in one dish and feeds a family.
- It tastes like classic chicken Parmesan but is simpler.
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- It makes good leftovers for the week.
how to make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Follow the steps below and use the Ingredients and Directions sections. Heat the chicken with seasonings, mix with pasta and sauce, then bake until cheese is bubbly. If you want more slow-cooker ideas while prepping other meals, check this easy chicken crock pot recipes.
Ingredients :
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt salt
- to taste pepper pepper
- for garnish fresh basil or parsley (Optional garnish.)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pasta mixture and mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Pour the casserole mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
how to serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Serve hot straight from the dish.
- Garnish with chopped basil or parsley.
- Add a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side.
- For a heartier plate, serve with roasted vegetables.
how to store Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Cool to room temperature before storing.
- Cover and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave single portions.
tips to make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Cook the pasta al dente so it does not get too soft after baking.
- Mix cheeses well so the top browns evenly.
- If the top browns too fast, cover with foil and finish baking.
- For a comfort-food side, you can try a potato-based casserole like this beef hash brown casserole.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Use Italian sausage or ground beef for a meatier version.
- Swap penne for rotini or rigatoni.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Q: Can I skip the Parmesan?
A: You can, but Parmesan adds a sharp flavor. Try extra mozzarella or a different hard cheese if needed.
Q: Is this freezer friendly?
A: Yes. Cool, wrap well, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
Q: Can I use raw chicken?
A: The recipe uses cooked chicken. If you use raw, cook it first until fully done, then shred and continue.
Conclusion
For another take on this classic dish and more ideas, see this recipe: Chicken Parmesan Casserole – The Cozy Cook.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pasta mixture and mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Pour the casserole mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if using.