Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole
A comforting and flavorful chicken casserole that combines juicy chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken Shredded or diced; rotisserie chicken works beautifully for a quick option.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought; ensure it's rich and packed with flavor.
- 1.5 cups cooked pasta Penne or rotini work well.
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese For that melty, gooey goodness everyone loves.
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese For the authentic cheesy topping.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder To enhance the flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh basil (optional) For garnish; it adds a lovely color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, cooked pasta, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top, followed by grated Parmesan.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and turning golden.
- Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, before slicing and serving.
Notes
To make it dairy-free, swap in dairy-free cheese alternatives. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara is also gluten-free. Add sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition or swap half the mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a gourmet twist.