Chicken Parmesan Casserole – SouthernRambles

Chicken Parmesan Casserole transforms the classic Italian-American favorite into a comforting baked dish layered with tender chicken, pasta, marinara, and melted cheese. By baking everything together under a crisp breadcrumb topping, you get the flavors of chicken parm with the ease of a one-dish meal. The result is bubbly, cheesy, and perfectly textured with a golden crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Flavors, Simplified – Captures the essence of chicken Parmesan in an easy casserole format.
Perfect for Leftover Chicken – A smart way to repurpose rotisserie or previously cooked chicken.
Crispy, Golden Topping – Olive oil-coated breadcrumbs bake into a crunchy contrast to the creamy interior.
Family-Friendly Comfort Food – Mild, cheesy flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be assembled in advance and baked when needed.
Balanced Texture – Combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and melted cheese in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – Provides protein and hearty texture.
2 cups marinara sauce – Forms a rich, tangy base that keeps the casserole moist.
1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini) – Adds structure and helps absorb the sauce.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Creates creamy melt and classic stretch.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, savory depth.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Infuses herbal notes throughout the dish.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances overall savoriness.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Balances and sharpens flavors.

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs – Forms a crisp, golden crust.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the breadcrumbs brown evenly.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds extra flavor to the topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Proper preheating ensures even baking and browning.

Mix the Casserole Filling

In a large bowl, combine chicken, marinara sauce, cooked pasta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Assemble the Dish

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Press lightly to remove air pockets for consistent baking.

Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In a small bowl, toss breadcrumbs with olive oil and Parmesan until evenly coated. The oil helps create a uniformly crisp topping.

Add the Topping

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole surface. Covering edge to edge promotes even browning.

Bake Until Golden

Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the topping is deep golden brown. Rotate the dish halfway through if your oven browns unevenly.

Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Use Al Dente Pasta – Slightly undercook pasta so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
Choose a Thick Marinara – A thicker sauce prevents excess liquid in the casserole.
Even Cheese Distribution – Mix cheese thoroughly to avoid dense pockets.
Toast Breadcrumbs Extra – Broil briefly at the end for deeper color if needed.
Rest Before Serving – Cooling helps the casserole firm up for cleaner slices.
Season in Layers – Taste the mixture before baking and adjust seasoning.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 hearty portions
Calories: Approximately 420–480 per serving (estimate)

Perfect Pairings

Garlic Bread – Ideal for scooping up extra sauce.
Simple Green Salad – Adds freshness and acidity.
Roasted Broccoli – Provides a nutritious vegetable side.
Sparkling Water with Lemon – Cleanses the palate between bites.

Ideal Occasions

Weeknight Family Dinners – Easy and satisfying.
Potluck Gatherings – Travels and reheats well.
Meal Prep Sessions – Portions neatly for leftovers.
Casual Entertaining – Comfort food that pleases a crowd.

Storage & Serving Tips

Refrigerate Airtight – Store up to 4 days in a sealed container.
Freeze Before or After Baking – Keeps well for up to 2 months.
Reheat Covered – Warm in the oven to prevent drying out.
Add Fresh Herbs When Serving – Brightens reheated portions.

Creative Variations to Try

Spicy Arrabbiata Version – Use spicy marinara and add chili flakes.
Vegetable Boost – Mix in spinach or sautéed mushrooms.
Whole-Wheat Pasta Swap – Adds fiber and nuttier flavor.
Extra Cheesy Layer – Add provolone or fontina for richness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Casserole Too Watery – Use thicker sauce or reduce pasta moisture.
Dry Texture – Add a splash of sauce before reheating.
Uneven Browning – Rotate dish or broil briefly.
Mushy Pasta – Cook pasta less before assembling.

Why This Recipe Works

This casserole succeeds by balancing moisture, fat, and structure. The marinara hydrates the pasta and chicken while baking, and the cheeses melt to form a cohesive, creamy matrix that binds the ingredients. The breadcrumb topping, coated in olive oil, undergoes even browning through surface dehydration and the Maillard reaction, creating a crisp contrast to the soft interior. Baking at moderate heat allows flavors to meld without drying out the proteins. At roughly 420–480 calories per serving, it delivers satisfying comfort with a balanced ratio of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a practical, crowd-pleasing twist on a beloved classic that delivers comfort and convenience in one dish. Its blend of protein-rich chicken, hearty pasta, and melted cheese makes it deeply satisfying, while simple adjustments—like increasing vegetables or using lighter cheese—can tailor it to different nutritional goals. Whether for busy weeknights or relaxed gatherings, it’s a dependable recipe worth repeating.