This Crispy Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a cozy dish that combines crunchy chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty marinara sauce. It’s like the perfect hug for your taste buds!
You’ll love how quick and easy it is to whip up. Just layer your ingredients, bake, and enjoy. Spoiler alert: leftovers might disappear faster than you think! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use chicken thighs instead—they’ll add more flavor! If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using turkey cutlets.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. You can easily make your own by mixing plain breadcrumbs with Italian herbs. If gluten-free is what you need, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor! If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated can work too. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara sauce, but homemade is even better! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, opt for a low-sugar marinara or even a homemade tomato sauce with fresh herbs.
What’s the Best Technique for Breaded Chicken?
Coating chicken can be tricky, but it’s key for getting that crispy texture. Follow these steps for a great result:
- Set up a breading station with three separate dishes: one for flour, one for egg, and one for breadcrumbs.
- Remember to season each layer—this enhances flavor at every step!
- Pound the chicken to ensure even cooking and avoid dry spots. A meat mallet works wonders here.
- When frying, make sure your oil is hot enough. If it’s not, the chicken absorbs too much oil and becomes soggy.
- Fry the chicken until golden, around 2-3 minutes per side. It doesn’t need to be cooked through since it will finish baking.
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 1/2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
For the Cheese Layer:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
For the Sauce:
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Chicken Parmesan Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, making it a satisfying dish ready in around 40 minutes total! Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start your cooking adventure by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be ready by the time you’re done prepping!
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
Get three shallow dishes ready. In the first one, mix flour with a little salt and pepper. In the second, whisk together the eggs and water. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs with half of your Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. You’re setting up a lovely little assembly line for your chicken!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. This also helps them stay tender and juicy. Season both sides with a little salt and pepper for extra flavor!
4. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, coat it in the egg mixture before putting it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly to make sure it sticks. Repeat until all chicken breasts are breaded.
5. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the breaded chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and crispy. No need to cook them all the way through; they’ll finish baking in the oven!
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread half of the marinara sauce across the bottom of your casserole dish. Then, place the seared chicken on top of the sauce. Pour the rest of the marinara evenly over the chicken.
7. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Don’t forget to add the remaining Parmesan cheese for that extra flavor!
8. Bake It:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature should hit 165°F or 74°C).
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Now you’re ready to dig in!
This casserole balances a crunchy chicken crust with gooey cheese and rich marinara, making for a comforting and satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before starting. The best way to thaw it is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also quick-thaw it by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Prep This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken, layer it with sauce and cheese, and cover it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses?
Definitely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can try using provolone, fontina, or even a little bit of cheddar for a unique twist. Just keep in mind the flavors and how they melt.
