This Chicken Parmesan Casserole (Easy Family Dinner) is everything you love about classic chicken parmesan baked into a comforting pasta casserole. With crispy breaded chicken, tender rigatoni, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers all the flavor of traditional chicken parmesan in an easy baked form. It is simple to prepare, kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and ideal for using shortcuts or leftovers while still tasting homemade.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole (Easy Family Dinner)
Ingredients
- Rigatoni pasta or penne pasta
- Marinara sauce
- Low-moisture mozzarella cheese shredded
- Parmesan cheese finely grated
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour
- Seasoned salt
- Eggs
- Italian breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil
- Butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the rigatoni in salted water and cook for 1 minute less than al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Slice chicken breasts into thin strips. Season with seasoned salt, then coat in flour, beaten eggs, and Italian breadcrumbs. Fry in vegetable oil with butter until golden brown. Slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine rigatoni with marinara sauce. Spread half into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Top with half of the chicken, mozzarella, and parmesan.
- Add remaining rigatoni, then top with remaining chicken and cheese. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. For a crispier top, increase heat to 425°F and bake 5 more minutes.
Notes
Ingredients
- Rigatoni pasta (or penne pasta)
- Marinara sauce
- Low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour
- Seasoned salt
- Eggs
- Italian breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil
- Butter
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the rigatoni in salted water and cook for 1 minute less than al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Slice chicken breasts into thin strips. Season with seasoned salt, then coat in flour, beaten eggs, and Italian breadcrumbs. Fry in vegetable oil with butter until golden brown. Slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine rigatoni with marinara sauce. Spread half into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Top with half of the chicken, mozzarella, and parmesan.
- Add remaining rigatoni, then top with remaining chicken and cheese. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. For a crispier top, increase heat to 425°F and bake 5 more minutes.
Tips & Tricks
Shred cheese from a block for the best melting results. Slightly undercook the pasta so it finishes perfectly in the oven. Avoid over-saucing the chicken layers to keep them crisp. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Details
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly
Notes
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving. Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 22g
FAQ
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.
What pasta works best besides rigatoni?
Penne, ziti, or rotini all work well.
How do I keep the chicken crispy?
Lightly fry the chicken until golden and avoid soaking it in sauce.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild, cheesy, and familiar.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.
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Conclusion
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole (Easy Family Dinner) is a comforting, reliable dinner that brings together crispy chicken, pasta, sauce, and cheese in one satisfying bake. It is easy to make, perfect for leftovers, and always a hit with the whole family.