Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Chicken Parmesan Casserole! Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering blend of flavors.
2. Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have this casserole ready to bake in no time.
3. Perfect for meal prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for a convenient meal option.

Ingredient Notes:

• Rigatoni pasta: Adds a hearty texture to the casserole.
• Marinara sauce: Provides a rich and flavorful base for the dish.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a gooey, cheesy layer.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the casserole.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cooked to perfection and added to the casserole.
• Flour, seasoned salt, pepper, eggs, Italian breadcrumbs: Used to bread and fry the chicken.
• Vegetable oil, butter: Used for frying the breaded chicken.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh garnish to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Bread chicken breasts by dipping in flour, seasoned salt, pepper, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
3. Fry breaded chicken in a mixture of vegetable oil and butter until golden brown.
4. In a baking dish, layer cooked pasta, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sliced chicken breasts.
5. Bake in the oven until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips:

• To make this dish ahead of time, assemble the casserole but wait to bake it until ready to serve.
• Substitute different types of pasta or cheeses for a unique twist on the recipe.
• For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
2. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Chicken Parmesan Casserole with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Pair with a glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio for a perfect dinner combination.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or in the microwave for a quick meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use store-bought breaded chicken instead of making my own? Yes, you can save time by using pre-breaded chicken.
2. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe? Absolutely, feel free to swap out rigatoni for your favorite pasta shape.
4. Can I make this casserole in advance? Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Conclusion:

Don’t wait to try this delicious Chicken Parmesan Casserole! With its great flavors, quick prep time, and versatility, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!

Print