Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure all pieces are covered.
If using cooked pasta or rice, gently stir it into the sauce and chicken mixture until evenly distributed.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for five minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Serving and Storage:
Chicken Parmesan Casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. It works well as a standalone dish or paired with classic Italian sides.
Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal. The rich sauce and cheese pair nicely with lighter sides that add contrast.
Leftovers should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container. Refrigerated, the casserole will keep for up to four days.
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Tips:
Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure it cooks uniformly.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
If you prefer a crispier topping, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.
Using high-quality marinara sauce makes a noticeable difference in flavor, especially with such a simple ingredient list.
Conclusion:
Chicken Parmesan Casserole delivers everything people love about classic chicken parmesan in an easy, baked format. With tender chicken, rich marinara, and layers of melted cheese, it is comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that reheats well for leftovers, this casserole is a dependable choice that never disappoints. It proves that classic flavors do not need complicated preparation to shine.
FAQ:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes, freeze it before or after baking. Store tightly wrapped for up to two months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Do I need to cook the chicken before baking?
No, the diced chicken cooks fully in the oven as long as it is baked for the recommended time.