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Protein-Packed Chicken Parmesan Casserole

A fast, high-protein weeknight dinner that brings all the classic flavors of chicken parmesan together in one easy baking dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or cubed; rotisserie chicken works perfectly
  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta cooked 2 minutes short of al dente
  • 24 oz marinara sauce 1 standard jar
  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided; whole-milk preferred
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp butter melted
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large mixing bowl
  • small mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and half the mozzarella (about 3/4 cup). Stir until everything is evenly coated.
  3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer without pressing down.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by all of the Parmesan cheese.
  5. In a small bowl, stir together the Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder until the crumbs are evenly coated. Scatter over the cheese layer.
  6. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. If breadcrumbs need more color, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze fully cooled casserole for up to 3 months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave (2 min on medium) or larger portions covered in foil at 350°F for 15 minutes, uncovering for the last 5. Make-ahead: Assemble without the breadcrumb topping, refrigerate up to 24 hours, add breadcrumbs just before baking and add 5 minutes to cook time. Substitutions: Swap pasta for steamed cauliflower or zucchini for a lower-carb version. Add red pepper flakes to the marinara for heat. Substitute white beans and sautéed spinach for a vegetarian option.