Chicken Parmesan Casserole

A comforting, cheesy dish that combines all the flavors of chicken parmesan in an easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty family dinner!

Ingredients (Serves 6)

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
3 cups marinara sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups cooked pasta (penne, ziti, or rotini work best)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and cooked pasta until evenly coated.
Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, spreading them evenly.
Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips

Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Pasta Alternatives: Use gluten-free pasta or skip the pasta and layer with zucchini slices for a low-carb option.