Name: Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp dried oregano; 16 oz rigatoni pasta, uncooked; 24 oz jar marinara sauce; 3 cups water; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: A straightforward, dump-and-bake recipe that requires minimal effort.
High Protein: With 37 grams of protein per serving, it’s a satisfying meal option.
Family-Friendly: A classic flavor combination that appeals to both kids and adults.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to accommodate dietary preferences or available ingredients.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and stored for later use.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized cubes
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp dried oregano
16 oz rigatoni pasta, uncooked
24 oz jar marinara sauce
3 cups water
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and oregano. Mix well and let it marinate for 5 minutes.
Place the uncooked rigatoni pasta evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the marinara sauce and water over the pasta.
Add the seasoned chicken to the dish, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Stir all ingredients together to ensure even distribution. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil, stir the casserole, and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with plant-based protein alternatives or hearty vegetables like eggplant or zucchini.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or a vegan cheese substitute.
Herb Variations: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be used. Reduce the initial baking time by 10 minutes to prevent overcooking the chicken.

Is it necessary to cook the pasta beforehand?

No, the pasta cooks in the sauce and water during baking, eliminating the need for pre-cooking.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this dish well.

How can I make this dish lower in fat?

Use reduced-fat cheeses and opt for whole wheat pasta to decrease fat content.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.

What type of marinara sauce works best?

Choose a high-quality marinara sauce with minimal added sugars for the best flavor.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Certainly. Penne, ziti, or fusilli are good alternatives to rigatoni.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Ensure the dish is covered with foil during the initial baking period to retain moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prepping.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering the rich flavors of traditional chicken parmesan in a convenient, one-dish meal. Its simplicity, versatility, and satisfying taste make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or looking for a comforting dish to share, this casserole is sure to please.

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a delicious and easy one-pan dinner made with juicy chicken, hearty pasta, savory marinara sauce, and a golden cheesy topping. Packed with flavor and protein, it’s the perfect family-friendly casserole for weeknight meals or meal prep.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C); grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix diced chicken, garlic, Italian seasoning, and oregano in a bowl; let marinate 5 minutes.
Add uncooked rigatoni to baking dish.
Pour marinara and water over pasta.
Add seasoned chicken; sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Stir everything together; cover with foil.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil, stir, and top with mozzarella, Panko, and Parmesan.
Bake uncovered for 15 more minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped basil before serving.