Chicken Parmesan Casserole (Print version)
Crispy-topped chicken bake with marinara and three cheeses
# What you'll need:
→ Chicken
01 - 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
→ Sauce & Base
02 - 2 cups marinara sauce
03 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
→ Cheese
04 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Topping
06 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
→ For Baking
09 - Cooking spray or oil for greasing
# How to make it:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
02 - Spread the cooked chicken evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
03 - Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle dried Italian herbs over the sauce if desired.
04 - Layer mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
05 - In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened. Stir in chopped parsley if using.
06 - Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer. Top with remaining Parmesan cheese.
07 - Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
08 - Let stand for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
# Expert suggestions:
01 -
- Everything you love about chicken parmesan without the tedious breading and frying process
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy weeknight dinners
02 -
- Assemble this up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking for even easier prep
- Add garlic powder or red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a little extra kick
03 -
- Grate your own cheese from blocks for the smoothest melting texture
- Pat the cooked chicken dry slightly if it seems too juicy