Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

If you’re hunting for the ultimate comfort dish that combines cozy Italian flavors and family-friendly vibes, look no further than Chicken Parmesan Casserole. It’s a bubbly, cheesy mashup of classic chicken parmesan and saucy baked pasta—pure magic in every bite!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I adore about this Chicken Parmesan Casserole is how each simple ingredient shines. The cheesy, flavorful layers are created using items you probably have on hand, and every single one adds something special to the final, swoon-worthy bite.

• Rigatoni pasta (¾ pound): Its hearty shape catches all the sauce and cheese, giving the casserole a perfectly comforting bite.
• Marinara sauce (32–48 oz.): Use your favorite jarred or homemade—this is where so much of the rich, tomato-y flavor comes from. Add more for extra sauciness!
• Mozzarella cheese (3 cups, divided): Melts beautifully for gooey, stretchy goodness in every layer; freshly shredded melts best.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (⅓ cup, divided): Adds a salty, nutty punch—don’t skip! It’s a classic for a reason.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts (2 small): Sliced, breaded, and pan-fried so they stay juicy and develop that crave-worthy crispy edge.
• Flour (¾ cup): Key to giving the chicken its first coating so the breadcrumbs stick.
• Seasoned salt (2 teaspoons) & pepper (¼ teaspoon): Ensures the chicken is flavorful from the inside out.
• Eggs (2): Act as a glue—helping the breadcrumbs adhere tightly to each piece of chicken.
• Italian breadcrumbs (1½ cups): Bring herby crunch to the chicken so it stands up in the casserole.
• Vegetable oil (¾ cup): For shallow frying; gets the chicken deeply golden and delicious.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): A bit melted into the pan boosts that signature crispy brown color on the chicken.
• Fresh parsley: The perfect final, fresh pop of green at the table.

Variations

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is as flexible as it is irresistible! Don’t hesitate to change up the proteins, sauces, cheeses, or seasonings—making it your go-to base for whatever you’re craving or have on hand.

• Swap the Pasta: Penne, ziti, even shells all work beautifully—just pick a shape that hugs the sauce!
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or toss sliced hot cherry peppers on top for a little kick.
• Go Lighter: Bake or air fry the chicken instead of pan-frying for a lighter version with less oil.
• Vegetarian Twist: Substitute roasted eggplant rounds or breaded cauliflower for the chicken—the flavors hold up deliciously.
• Cheese Upgrade: Mix in provolone or fontina for extra depth and meltiness beyond traditional mozzarella.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Sauce

Start by boiling a big pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni for one minute less than the package directions for al dente. This helps prevent mushy pasta after baking. Drain it well, return to the pot, and stir in your marinara, a bit of Parmesan, and a cup of mozzarella—this sauce bath sets the stage for irresistible flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Bread and Fry the Chicken

While the pasta bubbles away, prep your chicken: blot it dry, slice into ½-inch strips, and set up your breading assembly line. Dip each piece first in seasoned flour, then egg, and finally give it a coating of Italian breadcrumbs—press gently so they really adhere. Pan-fry in a blend of oil and a bit of butter so the exterior becomes deeply golden and crisp, then drain on paper towels and slice into bite-size pieces.

Step 3: Assemble and Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375ºF and grease a large 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer half the saucy pasta in, then nestle in half of the chicken. Scatter on more mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat with the rest—finishing with plenty of cheese on top so it turns golden and bubbly while baking.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Place the casserole, uncovered, in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. If you like that crispy-cheesy crown on top (who doesn’t?), blast it under the broiler or raise the heat to 425ºF for the last 5 minutes. The aroma will have everyone running to the kitchen!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving so it’s easier to scoop. Shower the top with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, then dig in and watch those cheesy strands stretch. Serve hot and enjoy the best of Chicken Parmesan in cozy casserole form!

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple fresh garnish! Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the casserole right before serving—it pops beautifully against the cheese and adds a lovely, herby finish. For extra decadence, a shower of additional grated Parmesan over each scoop is totally encouraged.

Side Dishes

Chicken Parmesan Casserole shines with a crisp green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette—think arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix. Garlic bread is a must for soaking up any extra sauce, and buttery roasted vegetables (like broccoli or asparagus) round out the meal with color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Stun your guests by baking individual portions in ramekins for a bistro-style touch, or serve family-style straight from the hot dish for that cozy, “come and get it” feeling. For potlucks, scoop into small bowls with toothpicks for bite-sized party appetizers—yes, Chicken Parmesan Casserole can be fancy and fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days—making lunches or next-day dinners extra satisfying and fuss-free!

Freezing

This casserole is a freezer superstar! Assemble up through the baking step, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed—you can also freeze baked leftovers for grab-and-go portions.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Chicken Parmesan Casserole covered in a 350ºF oven until hot and bubbly—about 20 minutes. For a quick lunch, zap individual portions in the microwave, but the oven will always bring back the crispiest bites and gooey cheese.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of ooey-gooey comfort with all the best Italian flavors in one dish, Chicken Parmesan Casserole is about to steal your heart (and your dinner table). I hope you treat yourself and your crew to this bubbling, cheesy masterpiece soon—it’s pure happiness in a pan, ready to serve up another memory-filled meal!

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