Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the cozy flavors of a classic Italian favorite together with satisfying ease, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole is going to become one of your absolute go-tos. Imagine tender chunks of seasoned chicken mingling with perfectly cooked rigatoni, all wrapped in a rich, hearty marinara sauce and topped with a golden, bubbling blanket of mozzarella, Parmesan, and crispy breadcrumbs. It’s everything you love about Chicken Parmesan, but in a one-dish wonder that saves you time without skimping on flavor or that irresistible home-cooked vibe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keep it simple, keep it delicious. Each ingredient plays a key role in layering those comforting textures and vibrant flavors that make this casserole shine, from zesty herbs to creamy cheese and perfectly tender pasta.

• 1 ½ lb chicken breasts (diced): Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up all the flavorful seasoning.
• 4 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic adds a punch of aromatic warmth that elevates the entire dish.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: Brings that classic Italian herb blend to keep every bite lively.
• 1 tsp oregano: Adds a slightly earthy note that pairs beautifully with the marinara.
• 16 oz rigatoni pasta (uncooked): Tube-shaped pasta holds sauce perfectly and adds great texture.
• 24 oz jar marinara sauce: The saucy, tangy heart of the dish that keeps it moist and flavorful.
• 3 cups water: Helps cook the pasta in the oven, making this a fuss-free one-dish meal.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the natural taste of ingredients.
• ½ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and depth.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella: Melts into a delightful gooey, cheesy layer that everyone loves.
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs: Creates a satisfyingly crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy casserole.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty richness that’s signature to Parmesan dishes.
• Fresh basil (chopped): A fresh herbal touch that brightens up the whole casserole at the end.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 425F and lightly spraying a 9×13 baking dish with oil to prevent sticking. This simple prep sets the stage for your casserole to cook evenly and come out perfect every time.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, toss your diced chicken breasts with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and oregano. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the flavors really soak in. This step infuses your chicken with that irresistible aromatic goodness.

Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients

Add uncooked rigatoni, marinara sauce, water, the seasoned chicken, salt, and black pepper directly into the baking dish. Give everything a good stir until it’s evenly mixed. This one-dish approach cuts down on mess while ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil to keep the moisture locked in. Bake for 30 minutes so the pasta can start cooking and the chicken cooks through in the flavorful sauce. This step builds the foundation of your casserole.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping

Carefully remove the foil, give the mixture a gentle stir (there will be plenty of liquid still—don’t worry!), and sprinkle shredded mozzarella, Panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This combination will create that golden, bubbly crust we all crave.

Step 6: Final Bake Uncovered

Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese topping turns golden brown and the pasta is tender. This final step perfects the texture and gives you that irresistible cheesy crunch on top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh basil across the casserole. This fresh, green burst of flavor cuts through the richness and adds a lovely pop of color, finishing your masterpiece perfectly.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh basil is the classic finishing touch, but you can also add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an elevated presentation. These little touches make your casserole feel even more special.

Side Dishes

Pairing this Chicken Parmesan Casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balances the richness with refreshing vibrancy. Garlic bread or a simple side of steamed broccoli also complements the dish wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or family gathering, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish family-style for effortless sharing. Or, portion it out into individual ramekins for a charming, restaurant-quality presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your Chicken Parmesan Casserole completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making easy weekday meals a reality.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the dish but do not bake it, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a little extra bake time if needed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350F covered with foil until warmed through to keep the chicken juicy and the cheese melty. Microwaving works too, but the oven method preserves that wonderful crispy topping best.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of rigatoni?

Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or even shells work nicely. Just keep in mind, the pasta shape affects how the sauce clings and cooks, so adjust cooking time if needed.

Is it necessary to cook the chicken before baking?

Nope! Since the casserole bakes for a good amount of time, the chicken cooks right in the sauce, staying tender and juicy.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant, or use plant-based chicken substitutes for a satisfying vegetarian take.

What can I use instead of Panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work fine. Panko gives that extra crunch, but any breadcrumb substitute will add nice texture on top.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or stir some hot sauce into the marinara for a subtle kick that complements the creamy cheese and herbs beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole truly nails that perfect balance of comforting, cheesy, and flavorful that we all crave after a busy day. It’s simple enough to throw together on a weeknight but special enough to serve guests or family gatherings with pride. Give this recipe a try and you might just find yourself adding it to your regular rotation because once you taste that melty cheese, tender chicken, and rich sauce all baked into one glorious dish, it’s simply unforgettable.

Print