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Indulge in a comforting family favorite with this delightful Chicken Parmesan Casserole! Packed with tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish brings the classic flavors of chicken parmesan right to your dinner table. It’s so good that my whole family would have me make it every day if they could! Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe.
Nutritional Benefits
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is not only hearty and satisfying but also offers several nutritional benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. When paired with marinara sauce, which is rich in antioxidants, this dish provides a well-rounded meal that can help support overall health.
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (about 450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Cooking Tips
- Choose Quality Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite marinara sauce or even a spicy arrabbiata for an extra kick!
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights!
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste. Spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the olive oil until the mixture is evenly moistened.
- Assemble the Casserole: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the marinara sauce.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is perfect served hot alongside pasta, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad. For a complete meal, consider adding roasted vegetables or a fresh fruit salad for a touch of sweetness.
Storage Tips
- Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an ultimate comfort food that brings everyone together around the dinner table. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile choice for any family meal!
Conclusion
With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a dish that you’ll want to make time and again. Perfect for busy nights or special gatherings, it’s an easy way to enjoy a classic favorite. Try it out and see how quickly it becomes a staple in your home!
