Description
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a quick and easy twist on a classic Italian-American dish! Tender pasta, crispy chicken, and a rich marinara sauce are layered with plenty of cheese and baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a simple and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 ounces dry rotini pasta
- 6 frozen crispy chicken strips (such as Tyson or Foster Farms)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: While pasta cooks, air fry or bake frozen chicken strips according to package directions. Cool slightly and slice into ยฝ-inch pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, half of the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir in cooked pasta.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Top with sliced chicken and remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For the best flavor and texture, use crispy chicken strips. You can substitute with leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken if needed.
- For a homemade touch, use your own marinara sauce.
- Swap ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a creamier texture and added protein.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
