Are you tired of complicated recipes with endless dishes to wash? Get ready to fall in love with the most convenient and delicious dinner solution that will make your taste buds dance and your cleanup time disappear! This One Pan Chicken Parmesan Casserole is not just a meal; it's a culinary game-changer that combines the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with the simplicity of a one-dish wonder. Perfect for busy families, weeknight dinners, or when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort, this recipe will become your new go-to comfort food that everyone will be begging you to make again and again!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- If not already prepared, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Ensure chicken breasts are fully cooked and shredded. You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or boil and shred chicken breasts.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and shredded chicken. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese, covering the entire surface.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella for additional flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged. It melts more smoothly and tastes significantly better.
- If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and cuts down preparation time dramatically.
- To prevent a dry casserole, ensure your marinara sauce is slightly generous and your chicken is not overcooked.
- For a crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and flavors to meld together.
- For added nutrition, consider mixing in some spinach or adding roasted vegetables to the base.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven or microwave for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
