Chicken Parmesan Casserole
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the flavors of chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a casserole, making it perfect for cozy nights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works beautifully) Great way to use leftovers.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, ziti, or rigatoni) Al dente holds up well in the bake.
- 3 cups marinara sauce Choose a chunky, garlicky jar or homemade.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella For that gooey, indulgent pull.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan Salty, nutty finish.
- 1 cup ricotta or 1/2 cup cream cheese Makes the casserole luxuriously creamy.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced The tiny spark of aroma.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Oregano, basil, and a kiss of thyme.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) For a gentle heat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing and flavor.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish Brightens every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil.
- Cook pasta until just shy of al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package directions). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using.
- In a large bowl, combine marinara, shredded chicken, ricotta (or cream cheese), half the Parmesan, and the garlic mixture. Stir until creamy and well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce-chicken mixture and fold gently until every piece is coated.
- Spoon half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half the mozzarella. Top with the remaining pasta and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Baking
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnishing
- Scatter torn basil or parsley over the top for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
Make it festive by stirring in roasted red peppers and spinach, or topping with breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil and Parmesan for a crunchy crown.