Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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When it comes to family-friendly meals that combine classic flavors with hearty satisfaction, few dishes can top a Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This recipe delivers all the beloved components of Chicken Parmesan—crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey mozzarella—layered with tender pasta to create a one-dish wonder. Whether you’re using freshly breaded chicken, frozen tenders, or leftover rotisserie chicken, this casserole is an approachable yet indulgent meal for any home cook.

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Let’s dive into why this casserole is destined to become a go-to comfort food in your home and explore how to make it from scratch, step by step.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine digging into layers of perfectly cooked rigatoni coated in rich marinara sauce, nestled beneath golden, crispy chicken bites, and topped with bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Each bite offers the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and herby goodness.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also highly customizable. Want it saucier? Add extra marinara. Need a quicker version? Use frozen chicken tenders or leftovers. This recipe is designed to suit your kitchen and your schedule, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this crowd-pleasing dish:

For the Pasta

• ¾ pound rigatoni pasta
• 32 oz. marinara sauce (up to 48 oz. for saucier pasta)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

For the Chicken

• 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ¾ cup flour
• 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1½ cups Italian breadcrumbs
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

For Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the rigatoni: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta for one minute less than the package suggests for al dente. This ensures the pasta doesn’t overcook in the oven.
2. Mix with sauce and cheese: Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Toss with 32 oz. of marinara sauce, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Set aside.

Step 2: Bread and Cook the Chicken

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and cut them into strips about ½ inch thick.
2. Set up a breading station: Use three bowls:
   • Bowl #1: Flour, seasoned salt, and pepper.
   • Bowl #2: Whisked eggs.
   • Bowl #3: Italian breadcrumbs.
3. Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, dip in the eggs, and coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. Gently press the breadcrumbs into the chicken to ensure an even coating.
4. Pan-fry the chicken: Heat ¼ inch of vegetable oil with 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken strips in batches, cooking for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer cooked strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Slice into bite-sized pieces: Once cool enough to handle, cut the chicken into smaller chunks for easy serving.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the casserole: Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
   • Spread half of the pasta mixture in the dish.
   • Layer half of the chicken pieces on top.
   • Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, chicken, and cheeses.
3. Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. For a crispier top, increase the heat to 425°F and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve with garlic bread for the ultimate meal.

Flavors, Textures, and Aromas

The beauty of this casserole lies in its layers of flavors and textures. The pasta absorbs the marinara sauce, making it soft and tangy, while the crispy chicken offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the gooey, melted cheese. The aroma of bubbling marinara and toasted cheese wafts through the kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation to the dinner table.

Tips for Success

1. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and high-quality Parmesan will elevate the dish’s flavor.
2. Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying the chicken, leave enough space for each strip to cook evenly and maintain its crispiness.
3. Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Simply bake when ready to serve.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

1. Chicken options: Use frozen chicken tenders for convenience, or leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative.
2. Cheese swaps: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
3. Add vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers can be layered with the pasta for added nutrition.
4. Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to cater to dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Chicken Parmesan Casserole with these sides for a complete Italian-inspired meal:

• Garlic Bread with Cheese: A crispy, cheesy accompaniment to soak up the marinara.
• Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli for a lighter side.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Casserole brings the best of two culinary worlds: the comforting familiarity of baked pasta and the indulgent flavors of Chicken Parmesan. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to please kids and adults alike. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck dish, this recipe is destined to earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

So, grab your ingredients and prepare for a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of cheesy, saucy perfection. This casserole isn’t just a dish—it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest.