Quick Chicken Parmesan Casserole: Easy Weeknight Meal (Print Version)
Enjoy a quick & easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole, perfect for busy weeknights. Layers of tender chicken, marinara, and cheese baked to golden perfection.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Savory Foundation
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
→ Rich Tomato Hug
03 -
24 oz jarred marinara sauce
04 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
05 -
1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
06 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Golden Cheesy Crown
07 -
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
08 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 -
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
10 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
→ Aromatic Enhancers & Seasoning
11 -
1/2 yellow onion, chopped
12 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
13 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
14 -
1 tsp kosher salt
15 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 yellow onion, chopped, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant, starting your Quick & Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe right.
02 -
Add 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, to the skillet with the aromatics. Season with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
03 -
Pour in 24 oz jarred marinara sauce and 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained. Stir in 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld for this Quick & Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe.
04 -
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese into the chicken and sauce mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.
05 -
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This crunchy topping is key to a fantastic Quick & Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe.
06 -
Sprinkle the buttered panko breadcrumbs evenly over the mozzarella layer. Top with the remaining 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.
07 -
Let the Quick & Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish.
# Notes:
01 -
For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 tsp. You can also substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred, just ensure they are cut into 1-inch pieces.
02 -
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and some crusty garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
03 -
You can assemble the casserole (without the panko topping) up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the panko and bake just before serving. Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
04 -
Feel free to add a layer of fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms with the chicken for extra vegetables and flavor.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
large skillet
03 -
cutting board
04 -
knife
05 -
measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 449 kcal
Total Fat: 21 g
Total Carbohydrate: 17 g
Protein: 49 g