If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines all the best flavors of Italian-American cooking in one dish, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe has you covered. Imagine tender pasta mingling with creamy ricotta, layers of melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, zesty marinara, and crispy chicken pieces baked to golden perfection. This dish is not only a breeze to prepare, but it’s also vibrant and hearty, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that each play a special role in creating flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Every component brings something unique, from the chewy rotini to the punchy Italian seasoning, pulling the whole dish together beautifully.
- 8 ounces dry rotini pasta: Its spiral shape holds onto the sauce perfectly and offers a satisfying bite.
- 6 frozen crispy chicken strips: These add a delightful crunch and protein component, making it easy to prep without extra effort.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, ricotta gives the casserole a luscious, smooth texture.
- 2 large eggs: These bind everything together so the casserole holds its shape when sliced.
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: For that gooey, stretchy cheese pull everyone loves.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and a golden finish on top.
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce, divided: Homemade or store-bought, it infuses the dish with rich tomato goodness.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that brings warmth and authenticity.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides that irresistible aromatic base that pairs with everything.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: A gentle kick to awaken the palate.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Brings freshness and a pop of color to finish the dish beautifully.
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. Meanwhile, cook the rotini pasta until it’s just al dente—the perfect texture to soak up all those delicious flavors without turning mushy. Once done, drain and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken strips. Air fry or bake them according to the package instructions so they become crispy yet tender inside. Once cooled slightly, slice each strip into ½-inch pieces. This adds a delightful texture contrast when layered in the casserole.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, blend the ricotta cheese with eggs, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, half of the marinara sauce, along with the Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the cooked pasta until every piece is coated with the flavorful mixture.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pasta mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Scatter the sliced chicken pieces on top, followed by the remaining marinara sauce. To finish, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over everything. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is golden and irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a refreshing note and a lovely splash of green before serving hot. You’re now ready to dig into a plate packed with comfort and flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a must for this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe as it adds a bright, herbal contrast to all the cheesy richness. You could also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan right before serving for a bit more savory punch and some crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also complement it beautifully, rounding out the meal with crunchy and fragrant elements.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for that cozy, rustic vibe. If you’re entertaining, try layering the ingredients in individual ramekins and baking them separately—this looks elegant and gives guests their own personal portion. For a lighter approach, serve alongside a tangy tomato and cucumber salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy, satisfying lunch or dinner the following day, with all the flavors even more melded and delicious.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Freeze it either before or after baking by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months, making it perfect for meal prep or saving for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the fridge. Warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly again. A quick zap in the microwave works too, but the oven will bring back the crisp cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen chicken strips?
Absolutely! You can cook and dice fresh chicken breasts or thighs seasoned with Italian spices for a homemade touch. Just make sure it’s cooked through before adding it to the casserole to maintain the right texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the rotini pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that any pre-packaged ingredients like chicken strips and marinara sauce are gluten-free as well.
Can I swap ricotta for another cheese?
Ricotta is ideal for its creamy texture, but cottage cheese or mascarpone can be good alternatives. Just choose something mild and creamy to keep the balance of flavors.
How spicy is this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe?
The red pepper flakes add just a subtle warmth and never overpower. Feel free to adjust the amount or omit it depending on your spice preference.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for saving time on busy days while still enjoying a freshly baked meal.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want a satisfying, cheesy, and wholesome meal that pleases a crowd. Its effortless preparation combined with layers of flavor makes it feel special without any stress. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do!
