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Quick Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Quick Chicken Parmesan Casserole
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Quick Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal featuring tender chicken breasts baked with rich marinara sauce and a melty blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This easy recipe comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners, offering classic Italian flavors with a nutritious, balanced twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes & Variations

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers (for vegetable boost)
  • Provolone, fontina, or asiago cheese (for cheese swaps)
  • Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds (for gluten-free option)
  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for spicy kick)
  • Crushed pork rinds (for low-carb adaptation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even, manageable pieces. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to create a flavorful base for the casserole.
  2. Assemble the Layers: Grease a casserole dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken slices evenly atop the sauce, then cover generously with more marinara sauce. Sprinkle a mix of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top. Finally, evenly distribute the breadcrumbs over the cheese and drizzle with olive oil to create a crisp topping.
  3. Bake Until Bubbling: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the chicken is fully cooked through. The aroma will signal it’s ready to enjoy.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the hot casserole for a fragrant, colorful finish. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Cut chicken slices evenly to ensure consistent cooking times.
  • Use a quality marinara sauce for the best flavor foundation.
  • Don’t omit the breadcrumbs; they provide a satisfying crunchy texture.
  • Allow the casserole to rest 5–10 minutes after baking for cleaner slicing and better flavor melding.
  • Layer mozzarella cheese both inside and on top to maintain moistness and gooey texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, casserole, quick dinner, Italian, baked chicken, mozzarella, Parmesan, family-friendly

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/quick-chicken-parmesan-casserole/