Description
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish that combines tender shredded chicken, marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with a golden layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s an easy, satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Pasta Mixture
- 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (half of 1 cup)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (half of 2 cups)
Topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (remaining half)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (remaining half)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Season the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shredded chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes until warmed through and fragrant.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with marinara sauce, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors.
- Mix in the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken from the skillet into the pasta mixture. Stir well so all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the combined casserole mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Substitute any pasta shape you prefer; penne or rotini work best to hold sauce.
- If you like extra cheesy casseroles, feel free to add more mozzarella or Parmesan on top.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from chilled.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a lovely finishing touch and freshness.
