Hey y’all! If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that packs incredible flavor and crowd-pleasing satisfaction, Chicken Parmesan Casserole is your answer. This cheesy, saucy dish captures everything you love about classic chicken parmesan but in a quick, no-fuss casserole—ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy Sunday dinners. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- All the classic flavors of chicken parmesan in one easy bake.
- Quick prep time means you can have it in the oven in just 15 minutes.
- Cheesy, gooey, and crispy on top—perfectly satisfying for everyone.
- Great for meal prep and perfect as leftovers.
- Customizable for different tastes and dietary needs.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups garlic croutons or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Your Casserole Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Sauce
Spread the cooked chicken evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and gently toss to cover each piece.
Step 3: Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the saucy chicken. Then add grated Parmesan cheese on top for that classic golden finish.
Step 4: Top with Crust
In a small bowl, combine the croutons or panko with olive oil and Italian seasoning. Spread this mixture evenly over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
Notes & Cooking Tips
- Try using rotisserie chicken to save even more time. Learn more about rotisserie chicken tips.
- For a richer flavor, swap part of the mozzarella for provolone cheese.
- Want a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or croutons.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole Variations
- Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped pickled jalapeños to the sauce.
- Low-carb: Skip the croutons and top with more cheese or crushed pork rinds.
- Veggie-loaded: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Required Equipment for Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese)
Chicken Parmesan Casserole Storage Instructions
Allow leftovers to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap the casserole (whole or in portions) tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Pair with garlic bread or a crispy green salad for a complete meal.
- For a heartier dinner, serve over cooked spaghetti or penne pasta.
- Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables are also great side options.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Toss panko crumbs with olive oil before adding to ensure even browning. Learn more about perfect crispy toppings.
- Let the casserole rest before cutting to help the layers set.
- Grate cheese fresh for the best melt and flavor—store-bought shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents. For more on cheese grating and nutritional info check nutrition facts here.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole FAQ
- Can I assemble Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble up to one day ahead, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
- Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
- It’s best to use cooked chicken to ensure even baking and food safety.
- How can I make this recipe healthier?
- Use part-skim cheeses, low-sodium marinara, and add extra vegetables for a lighter version.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
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2Spread the cubed cooked chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish.
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3Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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4Top with mozzarella cheese and half of the parmesan cheese.
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5In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and the remaining parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
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6Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
420 caloriescal
Protein:
32 gg
Fat:
20 gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
25 gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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