Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a dish that perfectly combines crispy, tender chicken with gooey cheese and vibrant marinara, then this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is absolutely for you. It takes all the beloved elements of classic chicken Parmesan and transforms them into a cozy, comforting casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. This recipe balances the flavors and textures beautifully, making it easy to prepare yet feel like a special meal. From the crunchy breaded chicken pieces to the creamy melted mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce mingled with pasta, every bite tastes like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with just the right mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, each playing a crucial role in flavor and texture. The simple, quality components ensure a satisfying dish that’s bursting with classic Italian-inspired goodness.

• 8 ounces dry rigatoni pasta: Perfect for holding sauce and cheese in every bite.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a light coating for crisp frying.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth and a hint of savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness to the breading mix.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the coating with classic herbaceous notes.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just enough warmth and spice.
• 2 large eggs: Help the breadcrumbs adhere perfectly to the chicken.
• ¼ cup milk: Lightens the egg wash for easy coating.
• 1½ cups Panko breadcrumbs: Give you that signature light, crispy crunch.
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty star of the casserole.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
• 23 ounces marinara sauce: Provides rich, tangy tomato flavor and moisture.
• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Melts creamy and stringy for ultimate comfort.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided): Adds sharp, nutty notes for depth.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the rigatoni pasta until it’s al dente, following the package instructions. Drain it well and set it aside to keep it from becoming mushy later. This pasta acts like little pockets for the sauce and cheese to cling to, making every forkful deliciously satisfying.

Step 2: Prepare the Dredging Station

Set up three shallow bowls to make the breading process simple and efficient. Mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in one. Whisk the eggs and milk together in the next. Fill the third with Panko breadcrumbs. This layered coating technique ensures a flavorful and crispy crust on your chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken breast slice and dredge it first in the seasoned flour mixture. Then dip into the egg wash before coating it thoroughly in Panko breadcrumbs. Repeat this process until every piece of chicken is beautifully coated, ready to fry up golden and crisp.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches about 280 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for frying. Fry 2 to 3 chicken pieces at a time for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. Drain the cooked chicken on a wire rack to keep the crust crispy. This step adds that signature crunch and locks in juicy tenderness.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

While the chicken cools slightly, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready for the casserole bake. This timing helps the cheese melt just perfectly and melds all the flavors together into a divine dish.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce and Cheese

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, toss the cooked pasta with half of the marinara sauce and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This combination ensures every piece of rigatoni is coated in rich sauce and creamy melted cheese, building the base of your casserole.

Step 7: Add the Chicken

Slice the fried chicken into half-inch thick pieces and scatter them over the cheesy pasta layer. This spreads that delicious crispy chicken evenly throughout the dish so you get a little chicken happiness in every bite.

Step 8: Top with Remaining Sauce and Cheese

Pour the rest of the marinara sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. This final layer helps create a bubbly, golden crust that makes your casserole irresistible.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole for about 20 minutes or until it’s hot throughout and bubbling with melted cheese. Let it cool slightly before serving so the flavors can settle and you can enjoy every creamy, crispy mouthful.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A little fresh basil or chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich casserole. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can also bring a wonderful pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette can also be fantastic for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a charming, rustic feel. Alternatively, layering it in a clear glass baking dish can show off the beautiful layers of pasta, chicken, sauce, and melted cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the chicken tender and avoid drying out the pasta.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with foil or a freezer-safe lid, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed to enjoy later.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. This method maintains the crispy topping better than the microwave, which can sometimes make the chicken soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is great for holding sauce, penne, ziti, or even rotini work well and add their own texture to the dish.

Is it okay to bake the casserole without frying the chicken first?

While you can skip frying for a lighter version, frying adds essential crunch and flavor that makes this recipe stand out.

Can I substitute the Panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs?

Yes, but Panko gives a lighter, crispier texture that really elevates the chicken coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.

What can I add to make the casserole spicier?

Try stirring in some red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce or sprinkling cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture for a nice kick.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F when fried. Cooking it to a golden brown color and ensuring no pink inside is a good visual cue as well.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining beloved flavors in an easy, comforting way that feels homemade and special. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Don’t hesitate to dive into this cozy casserole and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection!

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