Hey there, friends!
Are you in the mood for some comfort food? I’ve got just the thing for you!
Today, I’m sharing my delicious chicken parmesan casserole.
It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a cozy dinner night.
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Trust me, this dish will become a family favorite in no time. Let’s dive in!
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Penne pasta can be replaced with other pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli, which hold sauce well and maintain a similar texture. For a low-carb option, use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash, adjusting cooking time accordingly. Prepared chicken can be substituted with cooked turkey, plant-based chicken alternatives, or firm tofu for vegetarian options. Ensure the substitute is well-seasoned to maintain flavor. Mozzarella cheese can be swapped with dairy-free alternatives like cashew-based or soy-based mozzarella for those avoiding dairy. These options melt similarly to traditional mozzarella, though cooking time may need slight adjustment to achieve desired consistency.
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 40-50 minutes |
| Total Time | 55-70 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 2500-2700
- Protein: 150-160 g
- Fat: 100-120 g
- Carbohydrates: 240-260 g
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 ounces) penne pasta
- 1 pound prepared chicken (shredded or chopped)
- 2 teaspoons italian herbs mix
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (used in parts)
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded (used in parts)
- 1 1/2 jars spaghetti or marinara sauce (48 ounces in total)
- Optional: chopped basil for topping
Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the directions on the package.
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, rinse it under cold water and drain it well using a colander.
Set the pasta aside for the next steps.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with cooked chicken, Italian seasoning, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce.
Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and cheeses.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the pasta mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and help heat it through during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the foil-covered casserole dish into the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
This initial baking phase allows all the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add Topping and Final Bake
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and take off the foil.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top of the pasta.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the casserole is heated throughout.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving for a touch of color and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy pasta bake!
