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Chicken Parmesan Casserole - Cozy, Crowd-Pleasing Comfort

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken works great)
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought; choose a good, thick brand)
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1 cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano and basil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 8 ounces cooked pasta (penne or ziti), optional if you want a heartier casserole
  • Cooking spray or butter, for the baking dish

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin coat of butter.
  2. Prep the chicken: If using rotisserie or leftover chicken, shred or cube it into bite-size pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook the pasta (optional): If adding pasta, boil it in salted water until just al dente. Drain well so it doesn’t water down the sauce.
  4. Make the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and slightly clumpy.
  5. Layer the casserole: Spread 1 cup of marinara in the bottom of the baking dish. Add the chicken (and pasta, if using), then pour the remaining marinara on top. Toss gently in the dish to coat everything evenly.
  6. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the sauced chicken. Top with the Parmesan.
  7. Add the crunch: Scatter the seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese in an even layer. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
  8. Bake: Place on the center rack and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden.
  9. Broil for color (optional): For extra browning, switch to broil on high for 1–2 minutes. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
  10. Rest and garnish: Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes so it sets slightly. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
  11. Serve: Scoop generous portions. It pairs well with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.