If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful meal, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the perfect dish for you. This comforting classic combines the crispy goodness of breaded chicken with al dente pasta, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Cheesy: A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that perfect, gooey texture.
- Family-Friendly: A meal that both kids and adults will love.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make it a stress-free dinner option.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day!
- Customizable: You can tweak ingredients to match your preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Chicken Parmesan Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until just al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Season with seasoned salt.
- Dredge each piece in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook breaded chicken pieces until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Once cooled slightly, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rigatoni and marinara sauce.
- Pour half of this mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the cooked chicken pieces over the pasta.
- Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta mixture, chicken, and cheeses.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
- Bake, uncovered, for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better and taste richer.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta just al dente prevents it from becoming mushy in the oven.
- Crispy Chicken is Key: Letting the chicken drain properly keeps it crispy.
- Make it Your Own: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
FAQs About Chicken Parmesan Casserole
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
3. What pasta works best for this dish?
Rigatoni, penne, or ziti work best as they hold the sauce and cheese well.
4. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, but using a high-quality marinara sauce makes a huge difference in flavor. You can also make your own for a homemade touch.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Conclusion
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the crispy goodness of breaded chicken, the richness of marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese over pasta. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal, a gathering, or meal prep, it’s an easy and satisfying dish. Try this delicious casserole today, and enjoy the irresistible flavors of this Italian-American classic!