Chicken Parmesan Casserole
The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Parmesan Casserole combines tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and savory marinara sauce. It's the perfect dish for easy weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends. Make it tonight and savor the delightful flavors!
Equipment
- Oven
- Grater
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 1.5 pounds breaded chicken cooked
- 36 ounces marinara sauce (about 3 cups)
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 tbsp Italian bread crumbs
- chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350˚F. This ensures that your Chicken Parmesan Casserole will bake evenly and become deliciously bubbly.
- Prepare the penne pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. You want it slightly firm, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- While the pasta cooks, chop the cooked breaded chicken into small bite-sized pieces. This makes it easy to mix and ensures every bite has a delicious chicken flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, marinara sauce, and parmesan cheese. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and mixed together.
- Once the pasta is done cooking, drain it and add it to a large casserole dish (approximately 2.5 qt). Spread it evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the chicken and sauce mixture over the pasta. Use a spatula to mix everything together, ensuring that the noodles are generously coated with sauce.
- Top the casserole with mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover all of the pasta and chicken mixture. This will create that delightful melty top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- After 15 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the Italian bread crumbs over the top. This will add a lovely crunch to your dish.
- Return the casserole to the oven for another 5 minutes. For an extra crispy topping, you can broil it for an additional 1 to 3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Once it’s done, garnish the top with freshly chopped basil and serve hot. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal!
Notes
- Storage: This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
- Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Vegetable Addition: Consider adding some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Gluten Free Option: Substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary requirements.
- Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheeses such as gouda or cheddar for a twist on the classic flavor.