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When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the delightful blend of flavors in a Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This dish combines the classic taste of chicken parmesan with the ease of a casserole, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With layers of pasta, chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a crowd-pleaser due to its simplicity and deliciousness. It’s a one-dish meal that saves time and effort without compromising on flavor. The combination of tender chicken, hearty pasta, and rich marinara sauce topped with melted cheese and crispy bread crumbs is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large casserole dish
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 (12 ounce) can chicken chunks, drained
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, stir in the rotini, and return to a boil. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain well in a colander set in the sink.
- In a large casserole dish, mix together the cooked rotini, drained chicken chunks, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour the marinara sauce over the pasta mixture and sprinkle with bread crumbs. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is completely melted, about 35 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Season the pasta water with garlic or herbs for added flavor.
- Layer some cheese within the casserole for extra cheesiness.
- Ensure the pasta is cooked just right to avoid a mushy texture.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a nutritional boost. You can also use panko bread crumbs for an extra crispy topping. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This casserole is a balanced meal with protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the pasta, and essential nutrients from the cheese and sauce. It’s a satisfying dish that fits well into a wholesome diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! You can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs and shred them before adding to the casserole.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.
Conclusion
With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a must-try recipe. We invite you to give it a go and share your experiences. Whether you stick to the original recipe or make it your own with some creative variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Bon appétit!
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trying this. Sounds easy and delicious 😋
This is easy and good recipe. However, I used breaded Tyson chicken patties and cut them in bite size pieces. I also added some extra seasoning to it.