Introduction
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Parmesan Casserole, a hearty and easy-to-make dish that combines the classic elements of chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a casserole. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Parmesan Casserole offers all the flavors of traditional chicken Parmesan in a convenient casserole form. It’s a great way to enjoy a favorite Italian-inspired dish without the hassle of frying chicken cutlets individually. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that is sure to be a hit at dinner parties or family gatherings.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces dry rotini pasta
- 6 frozen crispy chicken strips (like Tyson or Foster Farms)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 24-ounce jar marinara sauce, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Air fry or bake the crispy chicken strips according to package directions. Cool slightly, then slice into 1/2-inch pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, eggs, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, half of the marinara sauce, and all the seasonings. Add the cooked pasta and stir to incorporate. Dump the mixture into the casserole dish.
- Place chicken pieces on top of the pasta mixture.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce on top and sprinkle with the remaining cheeses.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is warmed through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve with chopped parsley on top and enjoy.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Serve this delicious casserole hot straight from the oven. Pair it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.
How to Store Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
Tips to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add additional herbs or spices to customize the dish to your preference.
- Make sure the chicken is cooked through before adding it to the casserole.
Variation (If Any)
For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of crispy chicken strips. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
FAQs
- Can I use homemade marinara sauce instead of store-bought? Yes, homemade marinara sauce can be used for a fresher taste.
- Can I substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese? While the texture will be slightly different, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta.
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
