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Chelles Recipes

Chicken Parmesan Casserole Comforting Family Meal

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To make Chicken Parmesan Casserole, gather these ingredients: - 2 cups cooked rotini pasta - 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish) - Salt and pepper to taste You can easily swap some ingredients if needed. For pasta, use penne or fusilli. If you don’t have rotini, these work well. Instead of cooked chicken breast, rotisserie chicken saves time. For marinara sauce, any tomato sauce can work. If you want, use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano. Don't have mozzarella cheese? Try cheddar or provolone. For a crunch, swap breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko. To make this casserole, you’ll need some basic tools: - 9x13 inch baking dish - Large mixing bowl - Measuring cups and spoons - Mixing spoon - Aluminum foil - Oven for baking These tools help you mix, layer, and bake your casserole perfectly. Having them ready makes cooking smoother and more fun! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, and marinara sauce. Don’t forget the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and fresh basil. Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key. It helps your casserole cook evenly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and shredded chicken. Pour in the marinara sauce. Sprinkle in the oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well. You want every piece of pasta and chicken coated. Now, grab your greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Start by spreading half of the pasta and chicken mix evenly over the bottom. Layer half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a nice cheesy flavor. Then, add the rest of the pasta and chicken mix. Top it off with the remaining cheese. Finally, sprinkle breadcrumbs over everything. This gives a crunchy finish when baked. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps cook the casserole through. After 25 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for another 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it. You want the top to be golden and bubbly. Once done, take it out of the oven. Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it set up before serving. Before you serve, add some fresh basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. To enhance the flavor of your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, consider these tips: - Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright touch. Sprinkle it on top before serving. - Add spice: If you like heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up. - Mix in cheese: Blend some ricotta cheese with the chicken for creaminess. It makes the dish richer. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for: - Overcooking the pasta: Cook the rotini just until al dente. It will cook more in the oven. - Skipping seasoning: Salt and pepper are key. Don't forget to season the chicken and sauce. - Not layering properly: Layering helps with even cooking. Spread ingredients evenly for the best results. Meal prep can save you time. Here’s how to do it: - Cook chicken ahead: Shred your chicken and store it in the fridge. It’s ready when you need it. - Prepare sauce in advance: You can make marinara sauce a day before. Just reheat it before mixing. - Assemble early: You can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for a hot meal. By following these tips, you’ll make a Chicken Parmesan Casserole that’s both tasty and easy to prepare. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a great way to use up any leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken, saving time and reducing waste. Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, for a unique flavor twist. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, consider mixing the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling them on top. {{image_2}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Swap the chicken for cooked lentils or chickpeas. You can also use sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. This swap keeps the dish hearty and full of flavor. Use the same marinara sauce and spices for a tasty mix. Cheese adds creaminess to the casserole. While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, you can use others. Try provolone for a sharper bite. Gouda gives a smoky flavor. For a fun twist, use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack. Each choice brings a unique taste to your casserole. Feel free to play with the sauce or spices. Instead of marinara, try Alfredo sauce for a rich taste. You can also mix in pesto for a fresh flavor. For spices, add red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for more depth. These tweaks keep your casserole exciting and new every time. After enjoying your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Let it cool to room temperature before you store it. Keep it in the fridge for up to four days. When properly stored, it remains delicious and ready for your next meal. To reheat your casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it is hot all the way through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure it's warm inside. If you want to freeze your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, first let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as needed for a quick meal. You can prepare Chicken Parmesan Casserole a day in advance. Cook the pasta and chicken first. Mix them with marinara sauce and seasonings. Layer the mixture in the baking dish but do not bake yet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake as directed. This method saves time and helps flavors blend. Yes, you can use different types of pasta. While rotini works well, penne, fusilli, or farfalle are great options too. Just make sure to cook the pasta until it is al dente. This way, it holds up well in the casserole. The shape of the pasta can change the look and feel of the dish, making it more fun to eat. Chicken Parmesan Casserole goes well with many side dishes. A simple green salad complements the richness of the casserole. You could also serve garlic bread or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, try a side of roasted potatoes. These sides balance the flavors and round out your family meal nicely. You learned about the key ingredients and tools for making Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Substitutes can help you customize the dish. We covered simple steps to prep, assemble, and bake it. Tips ensured you avoid mistakes and enhance flavors. Creative variations cater to different tastes. Finally, proper storage keeps leftovers fresh. Cooking should be fun and easy. Enjoy making this dish your own, and happy cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you want a cozy, family meal that’s easy to make, try this Chicken Parmesan Casserole! This dish layers tender chicken, rich marinara, and cheesy goodness for a meal that everyone will love. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, I’ll guide you step-by-step. Get ready to enjoy this comforting classic that brings everyone to the table! Let’s dive in!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting Flavor: This Chicken Parmesan Casserole combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with the comforting texture of pasta, making it a satisfying dish for any occasion.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
  3. Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness and familiar flavors make this dish a hit with kids, ensuring that it will be a family favorite.
  4. Great for Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, meaning you can enjoy delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day without any hassle.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make Chicken Parmesan Casserole, gather these ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked rotini pasta
  • 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Substitutes

You can easily swap some ingredients if needed. For pasta, use penne or fusilli. If you don’t have rotini, these work well. Instead of cooked chicken breast, rotisserie chicken saves time. For marinara sauce, any tomato sauce can work. If you want, use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano. Don’t have mozzarella cheese? Try cheddar or provolone. For a crunch, swap breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko.

Essential Cooking Tools

To make this casserole, you’ll need some basic tools:

  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoon
  • Aluminum foil
  • Oven for baking

These tools help you mix, layer, and bake your casserole perfectly. Having them ready makes cooking smoother and more fun!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, and marinara sauce. Don’t forget the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and fresh basil.

Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key. It helps your casserole cook evenly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and shredded chicken. Pour in the marinara sauce. Sprinkle in the oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well. You want every piece of pasta and chicken coated.

Assembling the Casserole

Now, grab your greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Start by spreading half of the pasta and chicken mix evenly over the bottom. Layer half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a nice cheesy flavor.

Then, add the rest of the pasta and chicken mix. Top it off with the remaining cheese. Finally, sprinkle breadcrumbs over everything. This gives a crunchy finish when baked.

Baking Instructions

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps cook the casserole through. After 25 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for another 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it. You want the top to be golden and bubbly.

Once done, take it out of the oven. Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it set up before serving. Before you serve, add some fresh basil on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Flavor Enhancement

To enhance the flavor of your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, consider these tips:

  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright touch. Sprinkle it on top before serving.
  • Add spice: If you like heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up.
  • Mix in cheese: Blend some ricotta cheese with the chicken for creaminess. It makes the dish richer.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

  • Overcooking the pasta: Cook the rotini just until al dente. It will cook more in the oven.
  • Skipping seasoning: Salt and pepper are key. Don’t forget to season the chicken and sauce.
  • Not layering properly: Layering helps with even cooking. Spread ingredients evenly for the best results.

Meal Prep and Timing Suggestions

Meal prep can save you time. Here’s how to do it:

  • Cook chicken ahead: Shred your chicken and store it in the fridge. It’s ready when you need it.
  • Prepare sauce in advance: You can make marinara sauce a day before. Just reheat it before mixing.
  • Assemble early: You can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for a hot meal.

By following these tips, you’ll make a Chicken Parmesan Casserole that’s both tasty and easy to prepare. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a great way to use up any leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken, saving time and reducing waste.
  2. Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, for a unique flavor twist.
  3. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  4. Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, consider mixing the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling them on top.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Swap the chicken for cooked lentils or chickpeas. You can also use sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. This swap keeps the dish hearty and full of flavor. Use the same marinara sauce and spices for a tasty mix.

Different Cheese Choices

Cheese adds creaminess to the casserole. While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, you can use others. Try provolone for a sharper bite. Gouda gives a smoky flavor. For a fun twist, use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack. Each choice brings a unique taste to your casserole.

Alternate Sauces or Seasonings

Feel free to play with the sauce or spices. Instead of marinara, try Alfredo sauce for a rich taste. You can also mix in pesto for a fresh flavor. For spices, add red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for more depth. These tweaks keep your casserole exciting and new every time.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Let it cool to room temperature before you store it. Keep it in the fridge for up to four days. When properly stored, it remains delicious and ready for your next meal.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat your casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it is hot all the way through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure it’s warm inside.

Freezing Tips

If you want to freeze your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, first let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as needed for a quick meal.

FAQs

How do I make Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare Chicken Parmesan Casserole a day in advance. Cook the pasta and chicken first. Mix them with marinara sauce and seasonings. Layer the mixture in the baking dish but do not bake yet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake as directed. This method saves time and helps flavors blend.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta. While rotini works well, penne, fusilli, or farfalle are great options too. Just make sure to cook the pasta until it is al dente. This way, it holds up well in the casserole. The shape of the pasta can change the look and feel of the dish, making it more fun to eat.

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Chicken Parmesan Casserole goes well with many side dishes. A simple green salad complements the richness of the casserole. You could also serve garlic bread or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, try a side of roasted potatoes. These sides balance the flavors and round out your family meal nicely.

You learned about the key ingredients and tools for making Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Substitutes can help you customize the dish. We covered simple steps to prep, assemble, and bake it. Tips ensured you avoid mistakes and enhance flavors. Creative variations cater to different tastes. Finally, proper storage keeps leftovers fresh.

Cooking should be fun and easy. Enjoy making this dish your own, and happy cookin

To make Chicken Parmesan Casserole, gather these ingredients: - 2 cups cooked rotini pasta - 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish) - Salt and pepper to taste You can easily swap some ingredients if needed. For pasta, use penne or fusilli. If you don’t have rotini, these work well. Instead of cooked chicken breast, rotisserie chicken saves time. For marinara sauce, any tomato sauce can work. If you want, use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano. Don't have mozzarella cheese? Try cheddar or provolone. For a crunch, swap breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko. To make this casserole, you’ll need some basic tools: - 9x13 inch baking dish - Large mixing bowl - Measuring cups and spoons - Mixing spoon - Aluminum foil - Oven for baking These tools help you mix, layer, and bake your casserole perfectly. Having them ready makes cooking smoother and more fun! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, and marinara sauce. Don’t forget the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and fresh basil. Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key. It helps your casserole cook evenly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and shredded chicken. Pour in the marinara sauce. Sprinkle in the oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well. You want every piece of pasta and chicken coated. Now, grab your greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Start by spreading half of the pasta and chicken mix evenly over the bottom. Layer half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a nice cheesy flavor. Then, add the rest of the pasta and chicken mix. Top it off with the remaining cheese. Finally, sprinkle breadcrumbs over everything. This gives a crunchy finish when baked. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps cook the casserole through. After 25 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for another 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it. You want the top to be golden and bubbly. Once done, take it out of the oven. Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it set up before serving. Before you serve, add some fresh basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. To enhance the flavor of your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, consider these tips: - Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright touch. Sprinkle it on top before serving. - Add spice: If you like heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up. - Mix in cheese: Blend some ricotta cheese with the chicken for creaminess. It makes the dish richer. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for: - Overcooking the pasta: Cook the rotini just until al dente. It will cook more in the oven. - Skipping seasoning: Salt and pepper are key. Don't forget to season the chicken and sauce. - Not layering properly: Layering helps with even cooking. Spread ingredients evenly for the best results. Meal prep can save you time. Here’s how to do it: - Cook chicken ahead: Shred your chicken and store it in the fridge. It’s ready when you need it. - Prepare sauce in advance: You can make marinara sauce a day before. Just reheat it before mixing. - Assemble early: You can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for a hot meal. By following these tips, you’ll make a Chicken Parmesan Casserole that’s both tasty and easy to prepare. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a great way to use up any leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken, saving time and reducing waste. Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, for a unique flavor twist. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, consider mixing the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling them on top. {{image_2}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Swap the chicken for cooked lentils or chickpeas. You can also use sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. This swap keeps the dish hearty and full of flavor. Use the same marinara sauce and spices for a tasty mix. Cheese adds creaminess to the casserole. While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, you can use others. Try provolone for a sharper bite. Gouda gives a smoky flavor. For a fun twist, use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack. Each choice brings a unique taste to your casserole. Feel free to play with the sauce or spices. Instead of marinara, try Alfredo sauce for a rich taste. You can also mix in pesto for a fresh flavor. For spices, add red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for more depth. These tweaks keep your casserole exciting and new every time. After enjoying your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Let it cool to room temperature before you store it. Keep it in the fridge for up to four days. When properly stored, it remains delicious and ready for your next meal. To reheat your casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it is hot all the way through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure it's warm inside. If you want to freeze your Chicken Parmesan Casserole, first let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as needed for a quick meal. You can prepare Chicken Parmesan Casserole a day in advance. Cook the pasta and chicken first. Mix them with marinara sauce and seasonings. Layer the mixture in the baking dish but do not bake yet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake as directed. This method saves time and helps flavors blend. Yes, you can use different types of pasta. While rotini works well, penne, fusilli, or farfalle are great options too. Just make sure to cook the pasta until it is al dente. This way, it holds up well in the casserole. The shape of the pasta can change the look and feel of the dish, making it more fun to eat. Chicken Parmesan Casserole goes well with many side dishes. A simple green salad complements the richness of the casserole. You could also serve garlic bread or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, try a side of roasted potatoes. These sides balance the flavors and round out your family meal nicely. You learned about the key ingredients and tools for making Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Substitutes can help you customize the dish. We covered simple steps to prep, assemble, and bake it. Tips ensured you avoid mistakes and enhance flavors. Creative variations cater to different tastes. Finally, proper storage keeps leftovers fresh. Cooking should be fun and easy. Enjoy making this dish your own, and happy cooking!

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

A delicious and hearty casserole featuring layers of pasta, chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese, topped with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rotini pasta
  • 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta and shredded chicken.
  • Pour in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
  • In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta and chicken mixture evenly over the bottom.
  • Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture.
  • Layer the remaining pasta and chicken mixture on top, followed by the remaining cheeses.
  • Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil.

Notes

Serve the casserole warm, garnished with fresh basil. You can place the servings on individual plates and add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top for an elevated look.
Keyword casserole, cheese, chicken, pasta

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