Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an ingenious twist on a classic Italian dish, delivering all the beloved flavors of traditional Chicken Parmesan in a form that’s much simpler to prepare.
This casserole version eliminates the need for the labor-intensive steps of breading and frying chicken, making it a fantastic option for a hearty weeknight meal. The combination of tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, aromatic basil, and a crispy crouton topping, all smothered in melted cheeses, creates a deliciously satisfying dish that’s sure to be a hit.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole: A Deliciously Easy Take on a Classic
Turning a classic like Chicken Parmesan into a casserole not only simplifies the preparation but also makes it a more accessible dish for feeding a family or a larger gathering. This recipe retains the essential components of the beloved original—marinara, mozzarella, Parmesan—but layers them into a bake that’s bursting with flavor and easier than ever to serve.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-55 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- Hot red pepper flakes, to taste
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 cups of your favorite marinara sauce
- ¼ cup chopped basil
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 (5 oz) package of garlic croutons
- Optional: Dry Italian seasoning for added flavor
Instructions:
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour olive oil into a baking dish large enough to accommodate the chicken in a single layer.
- Crush the garlic directly into the dish, mixing it with the oil. Spread this mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with hot red pepper flakes to add a bit of heat.
- Layer the Chicken:
- Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in the dish. Arrange them so that they are evenly distributed. (Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces helps ensure that it cooks evenly and thoroughly.)
- Add Sauce and Herbs:
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the chopped basil over the sauce for a fresh flavor boost.
- Add Cheeses and Croutons:
- Layer half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the sauce. If desired, add a sprinkle of dry Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Crush the garlic croutons slightly by squeezing the bag before opening it. Sprinkle the croutons evenly over the cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining cheeses. Crushing the croutons more finely will create a more textured topping.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes. Check the casserole around the 30-minute mark to ensure the cheese isn’t browning too much. If the top is getting too dark, cover the dish with aluminum foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
- The casserole is ready when the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serving:
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to settle. Serve warm, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of cooked pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a cozy and comforting dish that brings the essence of Italian cooking into your kitchen with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for those who love the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan but need a quicker, easier way to prepare it on busy nights. Enjoy the rich layers of flavor and the wonderful textures that this casserole offers!
