If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and downright delicious dish to bring everyone to the table, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines crispy chicken strips, gooey cheese, and perfectly seasoned pasta in a casserole that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. This dish perfectly balances richness and spice, making it feel like your favorite Italian meal in a cozy baked form. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a go-to for weeknights and gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a unique role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color in this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe. From the creamy ricotta to the spicy marinara sauce, every component is carefully selected to bring comfort and flavor to the dish.
- 8 ounces dry rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds sauce well for every perfect bite.
- 6 frozen crispy chicken strips: Using frozen strips saves time and adds satisfying crunch.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, mild texture that balances the tangy tomato sauce.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the casserole together for a firm yet tender texture.
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully, giving that irresistible cheesy pull.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the dish’s depth.
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce, divided: The heart of the dish, bringing tanginess and spice.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Infuses classic Italian herb flavors.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle savory sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that unmistakable aromatic boost.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gives just the right amount of heat without overpowering.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh brightness.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente—that perfect balance between firm and tender. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside. This pasta will be the base that soaks up all those wonderful flavors in the casserole.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the crispy chicken strips by air frying or baking them as per the package instructions. When done, allow them to cool just enough to slice safely into ½-inch pieces. These crispy chicken bits will add fabulous texture and protein to the casserole, elevating it beyond a typical pasta bake.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, eggs, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the Parmesan cheese, half of the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. This mixture forms the creamy, flavorful filling of the casserole. Gently fold in the cooked pasta until everything is evenly coated and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Layer the sliced chicken strips on top, then pour over the remaining marinara sauce for that saucy richness. Finish by sprinkling with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling with melted cheese—a sure sign your Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is ready to enjoy.
Step 5: Serve
Once baked to perfection, garnish your casserole with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a fresh flavor contrast. Serve the dish hot to fully enjoy the creamy layers and crispy chicken combined in each bite. This is comfort food at its finest, guaranteed to please every palate.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped fresh parsley not only makes your Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe look vibrant but also adds a subtle herbal note that brightens the rich flavors. You might also sprinkle on a little extra Parmesan for that salty punch just before serving.
Side Dishes
Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or warm, crusty bread are also perfect companions to mop up any extra sauce. If you want to keep it light, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans work wonderfully too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions that impress at a dinner party. You can also layer the casserole in a deeper dish and let everyone scoop their own servings family-style—that’s how the best memories and stories are made over meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. It’s a perfect option for quick lunches or easy dinners when you’re short on time.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, making it great for meal prepping. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture, ready to be pulled out for a comforting meal anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until bubbling hot throughout. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave, but baking helps maintain that lovely baked cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen crispy strips?
Absolutely! You can cook fresh chicken breasts, season them, and dice them before adding to the casserole. Just be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly first to avoid undercooked pieces in the bake.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the rotini pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just cook it according to package directions and proceed as usual with the recipe.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready to bake, allow the dish to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Part-skim cottage cheese blended until smooth is a great substitute for ricotta, delivering similar texture and creaminess.
How spicy is the Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe?
The recipe has just a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, which can be adjusted to your taste or omitted entirely for a milder dish.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that truly feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s so simple to throw together yet full of layers of flavor and texture that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, this casserole is the kind of delicious meal that keeps people asking for seconds. Give it a try and enjoy the cozy delight of homemade Italian comfort food!
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Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring al dente rotini pasta, crispy chicken strips, creamy ricotta, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses baked in rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines familiar Italian flavors in a convenient casserole form.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 ounces dry rotini pasta
- 6 frozen crispy chicken strips (such as Tyson or Foster Farms)
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
- Cook Chicken: While the pasta cooks, prepare the frozen crispy chicken strips by either air frying or baking them according to the package directions. Once cooked, allow them to cool slightly, then slice into ½-inch pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the grated Parmesan, half of the marinara sauce, dried Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir these ingredients thoroughly to make a creamy mixture, then fold in the cooked pasta until evenly coated.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the pasta and cheese mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread the sliced chicken evenly over the top, then spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use rotini or any other short pasta that holds sauce well.
- Frozen crispy chicken strips save time and add texture but you can use homemade breaded chicken if preferred.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for spiciness.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- For a lower-fat version, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
