Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible comfort of a classic favorite with a modern twist – Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This simplified weeknight dinner takes just 5 essential ingredients to create a dish that’s sure to become a family staple. By swapping the usual frying process for a convenient casserole bake, you can enjoy all the beloved flavors of traditional chicken parm in a fraction of the time.

During a busy week when time is of the essence, this shortcut version of Chicken Parmesan Casserole came to the rescue and quickly became a household hit. With flavorful pasta sauce serving as the secret weapon, each bite delivers a burst of Italian goodness that will have everyone coming back for more. The convenience of using pre-cooked chicken strips means you can have this mouthwatering meal on the table in no time, perfect for those hectic evenings when you want a homemade dinner without the fuss.

Elevate this dish with a high-quality marinara sauce, such as a roasted garlic variety, to enhance the overall taste without any extra effort. Feel free to customize with different pasta shapes and make-ahead for added convenience. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dinner solution or simply craving a comforting meal, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a deliciously easy way to satisfy your cravings.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy weeknight dinner option
• Comforting and family-friendly meal
• Simplified version of traditional chicken parmesan with all the familiar flavors
• Versatile – can use different types of pasta or cooked chicken

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 5 ingredients, this recipe offers a simplified version of the classic Chicken Parmesan that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: The comforting combination of pasta, breaded chicken, and melty cheese makes this casserole a hit with both kids and adults.
• No Frying Required: Skip the usual frying and multiple steps of traditional Chicken Parmesan without compromising on flavor.
• Customizable: Use different types of pasta like ziti or rigatoni and choose your preferred chicken option – frozen strips, shredded rotisserie chicken, or cooked chicken breast.
• Flavor-Packed: The key to the amazing flavor is using a good quality marinara sauce, especially a roasted garlic variety, which elevates the dish effortlessly.
• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days and reheat in the oven or microwave for an easy and delicious meal.

Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 20 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 32 ounces pasta sauce
• 4 ounces Parmesan cheese
• 16 ounces breaded chicken strips, fully cooked
• 16 ounces penne pasta

How to Make Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Prepare chicken

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Cook pasta

Cook penne pasta in boiling water for approximately 9 minutes until slightly underdone. Drain.

Step 4: Combine ingredients

Combine chicken, penne pasta, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sauce in a large bowl, reserving 1 cup of sauce. Toss to coat ingredients.

Step 5: Assemble casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Top with the remaining sauce and sprinkle with the remaining 4 ounces of mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until the cheese on top is fully melted and heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Take out of the oven and serve immediately.

Storage Tips

After making the Chicken Parmesan Casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy the dish again, you can reheat it in the oven for a crispy finish or use the microwave for a quicker option. Make sure to heat the casserole thoroughly before serving to ensure it’s heated evenly throughout.

If you want to prep ahead, you can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This way, you can have a convenient meal ready to pop into the oven when you’re short on time. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure the casserole is heated through if starting from a cold state. This dish’s flavors will continue to meld together as it sits, making it just as delicious when reheated.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian twist, you can swap the chicken strips with breaded eggplant slices or tofu cutlets. Both options can provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dish well.

If you prefer a different type of cheese, consider using a blend of provolone and cheddar or even a sprinkle of feta for a unique flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

To make the dish gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breaded chicken strips and gluten-free pasta. This simple swap allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this comforting casserole without compromising on taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this Chicken Parmesan Casserole, try layering the cooked pasta and breaded chicken strips in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets before topping with the marinara sauce and a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden brown for a fun and customizable presentation that’s perfect for entertaining or portion control.

To take this dish to the next level, consider adding some fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and a burst of herbaceous flavor. You can also serve this casserole alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish with some bright, tangy greens.

FAQs for Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different pasta like ziti or rigatoni. Just make sure the pasta can hold the sauce and cheese well.

How long can I store leftovers of this chicken parmesan casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake a few extra minutes if starting from cold.

What type of marinara sauce is best for this recipe?

The marinara sauce is crucial for the flavor. Opt for a good quality jar sauce, like a roasted garlic variety, to enhance the final taste of the dish without any extra effort.

Conclusion

I hope you give this Chicken Parmesan Casserole a try and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures it offers. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you simply want a comforting meal that’s easy to make. The convenience of this recipe without sacrificing the delicious taste of a classic chicken parmesan is truly a win-win for any home cook.

Remember, feel free to customize this casserole to your liking by adding your favorite ingredients or making substitutions that suit your taste buds. Don’t forget that the key to a successful dish lies in using quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the marinara sauce. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and whip up this Chicken Parmesan Casserole for a dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

“Transform the classic Chicken Parmesan into a quick and easy weeknight dinner with penne pasta, melty cheese, and marinara sauce.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time30 Minutes

Total Time45 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings10 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 20 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 32 ounces pasta sauce
• 4 ounces Parmesan cheese
• 16 ounces breaded chicken strips, fully cooked
• 16 ounces penne pasta

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare chicken: Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook pasta: Cook penne pasta in boiling water for approximately 9 minutes until slightly underdone. Drain.
4. Combine ingredients: Combine chicken, penne pasta, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sauce in a large bowl, reserving 1 cup of sauce. Toss to coat ingredients.
5. Assemble casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Top with the remaining sauce and sprinkle with the remaining 4 ounces of mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until the cheese on top is fully melted and heated through.
7. Serve: Take out of the oven and serve immediately.