Chicken Parmesan Casserole
A cozy and creamy chicken Parmesan casserole made with tender shredded chicken, marinara sauce, and melty cheeses, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought, adds rich flavor.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Substitute with Pecorino for a sharper taste.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Opt for reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
- 2 cups cooked pasta e.g., penne or rotini; gluten-free options available.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for sautéing and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend of herbs for depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Introduces an irresistible savory flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust to personal preference.
- optional Fresh basil or parsley For garnish, adds a fresh touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather your ingredients: Make sure you have everything you need ready to go.
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Shred the chicken: If using rotisserie chicken, pull the meat apart into bite-size pieces.
Cooking/Assembling
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté ingredients: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until heated and combined.
- Combine pasta and chicken mixture: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce until everything is coated well.
- Layer in a dish: Pour half of the pasta mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta and finish with more mozzarella and Parmesan.
Serving
- Bake in the oven: Place the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley for a bright finish.
- Serve and enjoy: Scoop generous portions onto plates.
Notes
This casserole is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Optionally, add veggies for extra nutrition and adjust spices for desired heat.