Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Looking for a delicious and easy meal option? Look no further than this Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This comforting dish combines tender, shredded chicken with marinara sauce, creamy cheeses, and pasta, making it a perfect family dinner that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Parmesan Casserole is not only delightful but also incredibly simple to prepare. It offers a wonderful blend of flavors that make it a timeless favorite. This dish perfectly blends the rich taste of chicken with the hearty goodness of pasta and the creamy texture of cheeses. It also provides an excellent way to utilize leftover chicken, saving you time and reducing food waste. Plus, it’s baked in one dish, making cleanup a breeze!
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Making Chicken Parmesan Casserole is straightforward and involves just a few essential steps. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you can whip this up in no time. Below are the detailed instructions along with the ingredients needed.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and seasonings (Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper).
- Stir in the cooked pasta until evenly mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Pro Tips for Success with Chicken Parmesan Casserole
-
Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken. Just shred the meat and mix it into your casserole for quick cooking!
-
Cheese Choices: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or Gouda to elevate the flavor.
-
Pasta Options: Penne and rotini are great choices for this casserole, but you can also use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as fusilli or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
-
Add Vegetables: For a healthier version, consider adding cooked spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
-
Make it Ahead: Prepare your casserole the day before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for a quick meal any night of the week.
Flavor Variations
-
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy flavor that adds a interesting twist.
-
Herbed Bliss: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme into the dish for a more aromatic experience.
-
Mediterranean Style: Swap marinara for a pesto sauce and add olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean touch.
-
Buffalo Chicken Twist: Mix in some buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy version of the classic dish.
-
Cheesy Deluxe: For even more cheesiness, mix cream cheese into the ricotta for a richer consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Parmesan Casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider adding:
-
Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery loaf complements the softness of the casserole.
-
Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can bring a refreshing balance to the meal.
-
Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add color and nutrition.
-
Wine Pairing: A glass of dry red wine, like Chianti, can enhance the flavors of the casserole beautifully.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
To store leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish and store it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——–|
| 350 | 30g | 40g | 15g | 3g | 600mg |
FAQ About Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! If you’re in the mood for something different, you can substitute the chicken with cooked turkey, shredded beef, or even vegetarian options like mushrooms or tofu. Just ensure they’re cooked before adding them to the casserole.
Can I make this dish without gluten?
Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Just replace the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To reduce calories and fat, consider using leaner chicken breasts and lower-fat cheeses like part-skim mozzarella and ricotta. You can also decrease the amount of pasta and replace it with steamed vegetables for a lower-carb alternative.
How long does it take to make from scratch?
This recipe is fairly quick and easy. The preparation time typically takes around 15 minutes, and the baking adds another 25-30 minutes. Overall, you can expect to have a homemade casserole ready in about 45 minutes.
Can I prepare Chicken Parmesan Casserole in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If it’s stored uncooked, just remember to increase the baking time slightly as it will be coming from a cold temperature.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a wholesome and satisfying meal choice that proves to be a hit at the dinner table. With its blend of tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and flavorful sauces, it’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Don’t forget to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create a version that your family loves best. Enjoy this dish, and happy cooking!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting Chicken Parmesan Casserole with shredded chicken, marinara sauce, creamy cheeses, and pasta, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and seasonings (Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper).
- Stir in the cooked pasta until evenly mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Use leftover chicken for a quicker meal. Feel free to experiment with cheese and pasta options.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
