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Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Chicken Parmesan Casserole
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This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines crispy, tender chicken breasts with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, all baked together to create a flavorful, cheesy casserole perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (blend of oregano, basil, etc.)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce and Cheese

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, and lightly brown the chicken pieces until golden on both sides but not fully cooked. This step seals in flavors and creates a crust before baking.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a casserole dish. Arrange the browned chicken breasts evenly on top of the sauce. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken, covering it well to ensure juiciness and flavor.
  3. Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauced chicken. Then, distribute the breadcrumbs uniformly on top to create a crispy, golden crust once baked.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld before serving.

Notes

  • Use day-old breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
  • Do not overcook the chicken during searing; it will finish cooking in the oven and stay tender.
  • Grate your own cheese for better melting quality versus pre-shredded.
  • Allow the casserole to rest after baking to prevent cheese and sauce from sliding.
  • Use a shallow casserole dish to ensure even cooking throughout.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Casserole, Italian, Baked Chicken, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Easy Recipe, Gluten-Free Option

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/chicken-parmesan-casserole/