I have been working with food and recipes for many years now, and finding one that really warms the heart and soul is like discovering a hidden gem. Today, I am excited to share my beloved Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe. This dish is comforting, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. It has become a staple in my cooking repertoire, and I want to take you through how to make it, step by step.
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Servings: 6 servings
For the Casserole:
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup penne pasta or any pasta you prefer, cooked
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and Pepper to taste
For Topping:
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
The first moment I experienced the joy of Chicken Parmesan Casserole was at a family gathering. My aunt prepared it, and I couldn’t get enough of the cheesy goodness. Now I whip it up often.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the casserole to bake evenly.
- Cook Pasta: Cook your pasta according to package instructions. You can use penne or any pasta you like. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, cooked pasta, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Layer on Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken mixture. This is where the magic happens—melted cheese mingles beautifully with the flavors below.
Crunchy Topping
To make my casserole extra delightful, I add a crispy topping. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and olive oil (or melted butter). Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Spread Evenly: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer. This will create a beautiful golden crust while baking.
Baking the Casserole
Put the casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma while it bakes is simply irresistible.
Serving Chicken Parmesan Casserole
After baking, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything to hold together rather than fall apart when you cut into it.
I like to serve my Chicken Parmesan Casserole with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad. The fresh greens balance the rich flavors of the casserole.
Why This Dish is Special
There’s something about Chicken Parmesan Casserole that takes me back to family gatherings during my childhood. Even now, reminiscing about those moments brings warmth to my heart. Family recipes tell stories, and this one holds a dear place in my life.
Variations of Chicken Parmesan Casserole
This recipe is versatile! If you or your family have specific tastes, here are some variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken for eggplant or zucchini slices.
- Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper for a bit of heat.
- Different Cheeses: Feel free to mix in provolone, gouda, or cheddar cheese for added flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Make it gluten-free using gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Leftovers and Storage
If you are lucky enough to have leftovers, they store well.
- Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked casserole portions as well. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough idea of what you get per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 24g
This dish is certainly hearty and filling, making it perfect for a family meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Casserole
To make this dish shine, consider these helpful hints:
- Use Cooked Chicken: For speed, use rotisserie chicken, which saves time and adds flavor.
- Quality Sauces: A great marinara can make a massive difference. Look for natural ingredients without too many additives.
- Cheesier Is Better: Don’t shy away from generously adding cheese! It enhances the texture and flavor.
- Rest Before Serving: Giving it a few moments to rest allows for easier slicing and plating.
Cooking is a true joy, and sharing meals with loved ones enhances that experience. My Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is a perfect dish to bring loved ones together, from family gatherings to cozy nights at home.