Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is one of those delightful dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender chunks of seasoned chicken melding effortlessly with rigatoni pasta, simmered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with a luscious, golden blanket of melted mozzarella and crispy Parmesan breadcrumbs. This Chicken Parmesan Casserole combines the best flavors of a classic Italian dinner with the ease and comfort of a hearty casserole, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients ready for this Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a breeze. Each element is simple but essential, bringing incredible flavor, texture, and color to the dish that will make everyone ask for seconds.

• Chicken breasts (1 ½ lb, diced): Using boneless, skinless chicken keeps the casserole tender and easy to eat.
• Garlic cloves (4, minced): Fresh garlic adds the perfect punch of aromatic flavor to the chicken.
• Italian seasoning (1 tbsp): A fragrant blend of herbs that enhances every bite with those classic Italian vibes.
• Oregano (1 tsp): This robust herb deepens the savory notes in the sauce and chicken.
• Rigatoni pasta (16 oz, uncooked): The ridges and hollow shape are perfect for holding onto sauce and cheese.
• Marinara sauce (24 oz): Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara for rich tomato flavor.
• Water (3 cups): Essential for cooking the pasta directly in the casserole dish.
• Salt (1 tsp): Brings all the flavors together and enhances the dish.
• Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a gentle spicy note to balance the richness.
• Shredded mozzarella (2 cups): Melts beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy topping.
• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Gives a wonderful crunch contrasting the gooey cheese.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.
• Fresh basil (chopped): A fragrant, fresh finish that brightens the entire casserole.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Give your 9×13 baking dish a quick spritz of oil to prevent sticking and to help build a golden crust on the cheese topping later. This sets you up for success right from the start.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, toss your diced chicken breasts with the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and oregano. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to soak up those bold flavors. This quick marination really helps the chicken shine in the final casserole.

Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients

Now add the uncooked rigatoni, marinara sauce, water, seasoned chicken, salt, and pepper directly into your prepared baking dish. Stir everything well to make sure each bite will be packed with flavor and the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This trapping of steam is key to cook the pasta and chicken perfectly without drying out. Bake it in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. Don’t worry if the pasta is still a little firm when you take it out—that’s what the cheese layer is for!

Step 5: Add Cheese and Crunch Topping

Carefully remove the foil and give the casserole a gentle stir to redistribute the sauce. Now, spread the shredded mozzarella evenly across the top, followed by a mix of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This topping will bake to a golden, crispy delight that makes each forkful irresistible.

Step 6: Final Bake and Garnish

Return the casserole to the oven uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese melts into bubbly perfection and the breadcrumb topping is a beautiful golden brown. Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil for that fresh, herbal kick.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh basil is indispensable as a garnish, lending a pop of color and a refreshing herbal aroma. You might also consider a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to bring that silky finish.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is wonderfully filling, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread enhances the meal beautifully. Simple steamed vegetables or a vibrant Caesar salad also make a lovely counterbalance to the richness of the casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this casserole straight from the oven in the baking dish for a cozy, family-style feel. Or, for entertaining, spoon portions into individual ramekins and garnish each with basil leaves and a Parmesan curl. It’s a lovely way to present this hearty dish with a little extra charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will last up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the casserole in a 350-degree oven until warmed through and bubbly once again—about 20 to 25 minutes. If reheating a single portion, a microwave works well; just cover to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully because of its shape, penne, ziti, or even penne pasta can be great substitutes to hold all that delicious sauce and cheese.

Is it necessary to use raw chicken in this recipe?

Yes, using raw chicken allows it to cook perfectly while baking with the pasta and sauce, infusing the whole dish with juiciness and flavor throughout.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the rigatoni for a gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many stores have gluten-free Panko-style crumbs that will give you the same delightful crunch.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, crushed crackers or cornflakes make excellent crunchy toppings that add extra texture and flavor to the casserole.

How spicy is this Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

This recipe is mild and perfect for all ages. If you’d like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some diced jalapeño when seasoning the chicken.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Chicken Parmesan Casserole, it will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s the kind of food that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make—and the cheesy, saucy comfort will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, this recipe hits all the right notes and delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. Give it a go and watch your family fall in love, bite after delicious bite.

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