If you love the crispy, cheesy goodness of traditional chicken parmesan but want an easier, family-style way to serve it, Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the answer. This hearty, flavorful bake combines all the best parts of chicken parmesan—tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese—in one simple dish. And the best part? No frying required.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday dinners, this casserole feeds a crowd and is always a hit. It’s comfort food at its best: warm, cheesy, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.
1. Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan Casserole
This dish is everything you love about chicken parm—with a fraction of the effort. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Easy to Make: No need to bread and fry the chicken. This casserole skips that step, saving you time while still delivering amazing flavor and texture.
- One-Pan Meal: Everything bakes together in one dish, which means fewer dishes and less mess.
- Perfect for Leftovers: It stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or next-day lunches.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a dinner party or a casual family meal, this cheesy, saucy bake is always a favorite.
- Customizable: Add pasta, veggies, or more cheese to make it your own. The basic recipe is a great foundation for many variations.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Parmesan Casserole
You’ll need just a few simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to make this dish:
For the Casserole:
- Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste (for seasoning the chicken)
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Marinara Sauce: 3 cups (use store-bought or homemade)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded (for that melty goodness)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated (adds that salty, nutty flavor)
- Croutons or Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 1/2 cups (for the crispy topping)
- Olive Oil or Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons (to drizzle over the topping for crispiness)
Optional Additions:
- Cooked pasta or rice (as a base)
- Red pepper flakes (for a kick)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
2. Season and Layer the Chicken:
Place the raw, cubed chicken evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Add the Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken. Use a spoon or spatula to spread it so all the chicken is coated. If you want to add cooked pasta or rice, layer it underneath the chicken or mix it in with the sauce.
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce-covered chicken. Follow with a generous layer of grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Top with Crunch:
Add a layer of croutons or panko breadcrumbs on top. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter to help the topping crisp up in the oven.
6. Bake Until Golden:
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the topping is golden brown and crispy. If needed, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.
4. Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Use Quality Marinara: A good marinara sauce makes a big difference. Choose a brand with simple, real ingredients—or make your own for extra freshness.
- Add Pasta: Want a one-dish meal? Add cooked pasta (like penne or rotini) to the casserole before baking. It soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara or sprinkle over the top before baking for a little heat.
- Extra Cheese? Yes, Please: Add ricotta or cream cheese under the marinara for a lasagna-like layer of creaminess.
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Short on time? Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw. Reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes.
5. Serving Suggestions
This casserole is filling on its own but pairs perfectly with a few simple sides:
- Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Use them to scoop up every drop of that cheesy marinara.
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with Italian dressing adds freshness and balance.
- Steamed Veggies: Try broccoli, green beans, or roasted zucchini for a healthier side.
- Spaghetti or Penne Pasta: Serve the casserole over a bed of pasta for a heartier meal.
6. Nutritional Benefits
While indulgent, Chicken Parmesan Casserole also offers some solid nutritional value:
- High Protein: Thanks to the chicken and cheese, this dish is rich in muscle-building protein.
- Calcium: Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese provide calcium, essential for bone health.
- Customizable Calories: Control the richness by using reduced-fat cheese or a lighter marinara.
- Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added for fiber and nutrients.
FAQs
- Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works great. Just reduce the bake time to 20–25 minutes since the chicken is already cooked. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready. - Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. - What’s the best cheese for this dish?
Mozzarella is classic, but feel free to mix in provolone, fontina, or even a bit of cheddar for added flavor. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free croutons or breadcrumbs and ensuring your marinara is gluten-free. - Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers add flavor and nutrients without changing the recipe too much. - What kind of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs are both great options. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner. - Can I use homemade marinara?
Yes! Homemade sauce gives you full control over flavor and ingredients. Just use about 3 cups. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions. Add a splash of sauce if it looks dry. - Can I make this dish low-carb?
Yes. Skip the croutons and use a low-sugar marinara. You can also add chopped cauliflower for a veggie-forward, lower-carb option.
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is everything you love about the classic dish, made simpler and cozier in casserole form. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or feeding a crowd. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation!