Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Introducing our beloved family favorite: Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole! This mouthwatering dish is a testament to the joy of simplicity in cooking and the heartwarming satisfaction of a classic comfort food. Loved by young and old alike, this casserole embodies ease of preparation, deliciousness, and a hint of nostalgia for cherished family gatherings. It’s a go-to recipe that never fails to bring smiles to the dinner table and warm memories of cozy meals shared with loved ones.

Crafted with convenience in mind, this recipe requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have a hearty and satisfying dish ready to enjoy in no time.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz bag of uncooked pasta (fusilli works great)
• 24 oz jar of marinara sauce
• 24 oz of chicken stock (or water)
• 1 1/2 lbs of chicken breast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1-1/2 to 2 cups shredded cheese (Chihuahua cheese recommended)
• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 stick of butter, melted
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Combine the pasta and sauce: In an oven-safe casserole pan, add the uncooked pasta. Pour the entire jar of marinara sauce over the pasta. Fill the jar with chicken stock (or water) to use up the entire contents, then pour it into the pan. Give it a quick mix to ensure everything is evenly coated.
2. Add the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pan. Generously season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to distribute the seasonings.
3. Bake – Round 1: Preheat your oven to 425ºF. Cover the pan and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the pasta to begin cooking.
4. Cover with toppings: Uncover the pan and give everything a gentle stir. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, followed by the Panko bread crumbs. Drizzle the melted butter over the bread crumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Alternatively, mix the bread crumbs with the melted butter before sprinkling over the casserole.
5. The magic ingredient: Add a generous layer of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the bread crumbs, adding an extra burst of flavor and golden crispiness.
6. Bake – Round 2: Return the casserole to the 425ºF oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread crumbs are golden brown.

Serve hot and enjoy the deliciousness of this Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole, a comforting meal that brings joy to every bite!