Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Name: Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: October 15, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This incredible Chicken Parmesan Casserole transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Parmesan Casserole:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought marinara works wonders here, but feel free to whip up your own if you’re feeling fancy.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The gooier, the better! Use whole milk mozzarella for that stretchy cheese pull effect.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely nutty flavor and crunchy texture on top of our casserole masterpiece.
Bread Crumbs: Opt for seasoned bread crumbs to enhance flavor and create that delightful crispy topping.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil will help achieve that golden crust we all crave.

For the Sauce:

Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil and oregano brings out those classic Italian flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Chicken Parmesan Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season Your Chicken

Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté them in a pan over medium heat until they’re golden brown on both sides—about five minutes per side should do!

Step 3: Layer It Up

In your greased casserole dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the seared chicken breasts on top and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.

Step 4: Cheese Please!

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of your layered chicken. Don’t be shy; think of it as an edible blanket of cheesy goodness!

Step 5: Crust It Up

Combine breadcrumbs with grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil in a small bowl until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cheese layer to create that irresistible crunchy topping.

Step 6: Bake It!

Cover your casserole dish with aluminum foil (to prevent burning), and bake it in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last five minutes to allow that topping to crisp up beautifully.

Finally, serve hot from the oven! Transfer portions onto plates and drizzle additional marinara sauce if desired for that perfect finishing touch—and watch those smiles light up around you!

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is sure to become your go-to recipe for gatherings or weeknight dinners because who doesn’t love a good dose of nostalgia wrapped in gooey cheese? Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know About Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This showstopping Chicken Parmesan Casserole delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown for maximum flavor. While the chicken cooks, prepare the pasta and sauce simultaneously to save time. Layer everything together in a baking dish, then let the oven do its magic.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or provolone for an extra cheesy delight. Add herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it maintains its delicious texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This professional-quality Chicken Parmesan Casserole relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I remember the first time I made Chicken Parmesan Casserole; my friends devoured it within minutes! Their enthusiastic compliments made me feel like a culinary genius.

FAQs

What is Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, marinara sauce, and melty cheese, all baked to perfection. It offers the classic flavors of traditional chicken parmesan, but in a simplified casserole form. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, as it can be prepared ahead of time and easily served. The layers of pasta or rice add heartiness, making it a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

How do I prepare Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

To prepare Chicken Parmesan Casserole, start by cooking your choice of pasta according to package instructions. Meanwhile, sauté diced chicken breast until golden brown. In a baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers as desired. Bake in a preheated oven until bubbly and golden on top. This simple preparation method makes it an excellent choice for home cooks of all skill levels.

Can I make Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily make Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time! Prepare the dish up to the baking point and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, just pop it into a preheated oven. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This makes it an ideal option for meal prep or when hosting guests.

What ingredients are needed for Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

The essential ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Casserole include boneless chicken breasts, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and cooked pasta or rice. You can also add Italian seasoning and garlic for extra flavor. Feel free to customize the recipe by including vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance both taste and nutrition in this delightful casserole.

Conclusion

In summary, Chicken Parmesan Casserole offers a flavorful twist on a classic dish that everyone enjoys. This easy-to-make casserole combines tender chicken with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it on busy weeknights or at family gatherings, this recipe provides comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try making your own Chicken Parmesan Casserole soon!

0 Shares