Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re diving into the world of Italian comfort food with a twist – Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This hearty dish combines the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a casserole, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Plus, we’ll cover some FAQs, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions for those looking to enjoy this dish without the guilt. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts, butterflied
- 1.5 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 bunch fresh basil, chopped
- 2.5 cups marinara sauce
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the butterflied chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and dried oregano. Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Place the coated chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top. Finally, scatter the chopped basil over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or basil if desired, and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make it Crunchy: For an extra crispy coating, you can pan-fry the breaded chicken breasts in olive oil for a few minutes on each side before assembling the casserole.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add some diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
- Switch up the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or asiago for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Replace the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb alternative. Also, opt for a marinara sauce with no added sugar or make your own keto-friendly sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Use a combination of almond flour and grated Parmesan cheese for the breading to keep the carb count low. Additionally, choose a marinara sauce with lower sugar content or make a tomato sauce from scratch using fresh tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Casserole? A: This casserole pairs well with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may require a bit longer to cook through.
Q: Is this dish kid-friendly? A: Absolutely! Children tend to love the cheesy goodness of this casserole, making it a great option for family dinners.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the flavors of Italy in a comforting and convenient casserole format. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italian goodness with this Chicken Parmesan Casserole recipe!
