Hey friends!
Are you craving a cozy, comforting dinner?
I’ve got a dish that’ll warm your heart: rotisserie chicken parmesan casserole!
It’s easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Plus, you can whip it up in no time using store-bought rotisserie chicken.
Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the hassle!
Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Shredded rotisserie chicken can be replaced with cooked and shredded tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. These alternatives provide protein and can absorb flavors well. Adjust seasoning as needed to compensate for the milder taste. For a pescatarian version, use canned tuna or salmon instead.
Whole wheat pasta can be substituted with chickpea or lentil pasta for a gluten-free, higher-protein option. These alternatives cook similarly to wheat pasta but may have a slightly different texture. Adjust cooking time as needed to achieve desired firmness.
Mozzarella cheese can be replaced with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan version. Use about 3/4 cup of cashew cheese or 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast to maintain a similar flavor profile. If using nutritional yeast, add a bit more moisture to the dish with extra tomato sauce or plant-based milk.
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40-45 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1200-1400
- Protein: 90-100 g
- Fat: 50-60 g
- Carbohydrates: 130-150 g
Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 8 oz penne (or any short pasta shape)
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce (I use Muir Glen organic)
- 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 2 cups shredded chicken (from a rotisserie chicken)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs (I use 4C brand)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
- cooking spray
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
While the oven is warming up, coat an 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your casserole won’t stick to the dish during baking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, add the cooked pasta, chicken, 1 cup of tomato sauce, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are well combined and the sauce evenly coats the pasta and chicken.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the mixed ingredients into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
Once the mixture is in the dish, pour the remaining 1/2 cup of tomato sauce over the top and use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the casserole evenly with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and bread crumbs.
These toppings will form a delicious, golden brown layer once baked.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the top becomes bubbly and golden brown, approximately 25 minutes.
Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy this hearty and flavorful casserole!
