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- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese on top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Serve hot, paired with pasta, a side salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
🍴 Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Use a good marinara sauce – Since the sauce is one of the key components, choose a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own if you have the time. Fresh, flavorful sauce will elevate this dish even further.
- Customize the seasoning – If you prefer a little extra spice, feel free to add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for a bolder flavor.
- Add some veggies – You can sneak in some veggies by layering sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini on top of the chicken before adding the sauce and cheese. It’s a great way to boost the nutrition of the dish!
- For a crispy topping – If you love a crunchy, golden topping, sprinkle some extra breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top before the final baking stage. It’ll give the casserole a deliciously crispy finish.
🥄 Variations and Add-ins
- Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake – Turn this casserole into a pasta bake by adding cooked pasta to the bottom of the dish before layering the chicken and sauce. It’s a great way to stretch the meal and feed a crowd.
- Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Peppers – For a low-carb twist, stuff the breaded chicken mixture into halved bell peppers, top with marinara sauce and cheese, and bake until tender.
- Use other proteins – You can easily swap the chicken for turkey, pork, or even beef for a different spin on the dish.
🍉 Final Thoughts
Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a fantastic, family-friendly meal that combines all the flavors of classic chicken parmesan without the frying and hassle. With its golden-brown breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melty cheese, this casserole is guaranteed to please every palate. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any night of the week.
Next time you’re craving the comfort of chicken parmesan but want a simpler, fuss-free version, this casserole is your go-to. Plus, leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day.
Give this recipe a try, and let the whole family enjoy the deliciously satisfying flavors of Chicken Parmesan Casserole. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this dish is sure to become a household favorite!
Let me know if you have any questions or if you want to add any twists to this recipe! Enjoy!
