Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan Casserole that combines the classic Italian-American flavors of chicken parmesan into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing casserole. This delectable dish brings together tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Imagine a meal that captures the essence of a traditional chicken parmesan but simplifies the preparation into a single, irresistible baked dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Chicken Parmesan Casserole: A Cheesy Comfort Food Masterpiece

This isn't just another chicken dish – it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. The harmonious blend of juicy chicken, melted cheeses, and crispy breadcrumbs creates a dining experience that's both comforting and exciting.

Get ready to discover how a few key ingredients can elevate your home cooking to restaurant-quality deliciousness.

Serving Suggestions:

Your Chicken Parmesan Casserole pairs perfectly with:

• Fresh garden salad
• Garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables
• Steamed broccoli
• Pasta side dishes

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan Casserole:

Chicken Preparation: Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy serving.

Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for the best melting and flavor profile.

Breadcrumb Brilliance: Toast the panko breadcrumbs briefly to enhance their crispiness and golden color.

Seasoning Secrets: Adjust Italian seasoning to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate before baking for maximum convenience.

Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Equipment: 9x13-inch baking dish, skillet, mixing bowls

This casserole recipe brings together the beloved flavors of chicken parmesan in a convenient, shareable format that's sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Base:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Crispy Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. The chicken doesn't need to be fully cooked, just nicely browned.
3. Spread the browned chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
4. In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this cheese mixture evenly over the chicken and marinara sauce.
5. In another small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are completely coated and golden.
6. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, creating a crispy golden layer.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for melted, bubbly cheese and golden-brown breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
8. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Ready to Enjoy!

Serve the Chicken Parmesan Casserole hot, accompanied by pasta or a crisp green salad. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal.

Storage Solutions:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain the crispy topping
• For best results, consume within 2 days
• Avoid freezing, as the breadcrumb topping may lose its crispiness

Whether you're a busy parent looking for an easy dinner solution or a home cook craving a delicious comfort food classic, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole delivers flavor, convenience, and satisfaction in every bite.

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