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Easy Cheesy Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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A quick and easy chicken parmesan casserole that combines tender chicken, marinara sauce, and melty cheeses for a comforting and crowd-pleasing dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (about 16 fl oz / 480 ml), store-bought or homemade
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 7 oz / 200 grams), fresh mozzarella can be sliced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 1.75 oz / 50 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked pasta or rice (optional, penne or rotini recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Toss the chicken pieces in a medium mixing bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
  3. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  4. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer over the sauce.
  5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken, spreading to cover all pieces.
  6. If using cooked pasta or rice, sprinkle it evenly over the sauce now.
  7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the top, followed by grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use quality marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella for best flavor. Avoid overcrowding chicken pieces to prevent dryness. Cover with foil while baking to prevent cheese burning. Let rest before serving for easier portioning. Variations include using turkey, plant-based chicken, or adding veggies for low-carb or vegetarian options.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, casserole, easy dinner, cheesy, dump and bake, weeknight meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/easy-cheesy-dump-and-bake-chicken-parmesan-casserole-recipe-for-perfect-dinner/