Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Name: Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 24 oz marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme); Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for sautéing

Published: November 1, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This incredible Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor and aroma to enhance your dish.
Marinara Sauce: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce to elevate the overall flavor profile of your casserole.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for that melty texture that pulls apart beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty richness that perfectly complements the other flavors.

For additional seasoning:

Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme elevates the dish’s flavor profile effortlessly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While you wait for it to reach temperature, grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to avoid any sticky situations later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take those lovely chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. You want them flavorful since they are the star of our show!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in minced fresh garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic is like that one friend who shows up uninvited.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine your sautéed garlic with marinara sauce and dried Italian herbs. Stir it up like it’s about to become famous!

Step 5: Layer Your Casserole

In the greased baking dish, layer half of the seasoned chicken at the bottom. Pour half of your marinara mixture over it. Then sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese followed by more chicken and marinara on top.

Step 6: Bake Away

Cover with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove from oven, take off the foil (carefully!) and add more mozzarella cheese on top before returning it uncovered for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of this Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole; it’s like an embrace from an old friend! Whether serving it at a family gathering or cozying up alone on a Tuesday night with Netflix playing in the background, this dish guarantees satisfaction all around.

You Must Know About Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This showstopping Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve optimal results with your Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole, start by searing the chicken first to lock in flavor. While it’s sizzling away, cook the pasta and prepare the sauce simultaneously. This efficient sequence ensures everything comes together perfectly.

Flavor Your Way

Want to switch things up? Try swapping the chicken for turkey or even eggplant for a vegetarian twist. Add your favorite herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavors further—feel free to get creative with cheese types too!

Storing & Reheating

For leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven until warmed through, ensuring that it remains crispy and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This professional-quality Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing this recipe with friends during a cozy dinner party turned into an unexpected highlight when everyone insisted on seconds—talk about a win! It felt amazing knowing my Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole was the star of the show that night.

FAQs

What is Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken pieces, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, all baked together for a delicious meal. This casserole version simplifies the traditional chicken parmesan by layering the ingredients in a baking dish instead of breading and frying the chicken. It’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. The rich flavors of Italian seasoning, combined with the melty cheese, make this dish a family favorite.

How do I make Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole healthier?

To make Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole healthier, consider using whole-grain pasta or zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta. You can also opt for skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat content. Additionally, using low-fat cheese can help cut down on calories while still providing that cheesy goodness. Adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers will increase the nutritional value without compromising taste. Lastly, using homemade marinara sauce allows you to control ingredients and avoid added sugars.

Can I prepare Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time! Simply assemble all the ingredients in your baking dish without baking it right away. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just preheat your oven and bake as instructed. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep!

What sides pair well with Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole nicely. Garlic bread is another popular choice, adding crunch and flavor that enhances your meal experience. For something more substantial, consider serving roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli to balance out the dish’s richness. These sides not only complete your dinner plate but also add vibrant colors and textures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. It combines savory chicken, zesty marinara sauce, and melted cheese into one hearty meal that everyone will love. Whether you choose to make it healthier or prepare it in advance, this casserole is versatile enough for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful recipe with your favorite sides for a satisfying dinner experience!

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