Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Casserole Quick

• Cooked Chicken Breast: The essential protein base for this quick casserole. Using pre-cooked chicken dramatically speeds up dinner prep.
• Marinara Sauce: Provides the rich, tomatoey foundation. Choose a brand you love for the best flavor.
• Penne Pasta: Creates a hearty, satisfying texture throughout. Cooking al dente pasta allows it to absorb the delicious sauce beautifully.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show for that classic gooey, melted cheese pull. Freshly shredding provides superior melt.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor. Don’t skip this essential ingredient for authentic taste.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing aromatics, building the initial flavor layers. A good quality extra virgin olive oil makes a difference.
• Yellow Onion: An aromatic base that adds sweetness and depth. Sauté until translucent for the best flavor release.
• Garlic Cloves: The pungent flavor builder that truly elevates the Italian profile. Always mince fresh garlic for maximum impact.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory notes. Use low-sodium broth to control the overall saltiness.
• Dried Oregano: A classic Italian herb, bringing warmth and earthy notes. Rub between your palms to release its full aroma.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors. Adjust to your preference, especially if using salted broth.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and peppery kick. Freshly ground pepper offers the most vibrant flavor.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates a wonderfully crispy, golden topping for texture contrast. Toast lightly for extra crunch.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of fresh color and herbaceous brightness. Stir some into the casserole for extra flavor.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole Quick

Cook Pasta & Sauté:

Boil penne until al dente, drain. Meanwhile, sauté chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until soft. Add minced garlic and dried oregano, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. This sets a flavorful base for your casserole.

Mix Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, marinara sauce, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the sautéed onion-garlic mixture until well combined. This forms the flavorful core of our Chicken Parmesan Casserole Quick.

Fold in Pasta:

Gently fold the al dente penne pasta into the chicken and sauce mixture until evenly coated. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Ensure everything is well distributed for a perfect bite.

Assemble Casserole:

Pour the Chicken Parmesan Casserole Quick mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. This layer will become wonderfully gooey.

Bake & Brown:

Bake the casserole at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly around the edges. Sprinkle the Panko breadcrumbs and remaining Parmesan over the top. Continue baking for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and delicious.

Rest & Serve:

Let your Chicken Parmesan Casserole Quick rest for 5-10 minutes before serving; this allows the cheese to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finish. Enjoy this comforting, fuss-free meal!

How to Store Chicken Parmesan Casserole Quick

To keep your leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole Quick fresh, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will store well for 3-4 days. I learned the hard way that leaving it out too long means sad, spoiled leftovers, so always check for any off smells before enjoying.

You can make components ahead! Cook pasta, chicken, and the sauce base 1-2 days in advance. Assemble the casserole just before baking, or fully assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

For reheating, cover and warm gently in the oven or microwave for delicious results.

What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Casserole Quick

Serve your Amazing Quick Chicken Parmesan Casserole hot, straight from the oven. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with extra fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This casserole is perfect alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some warm garlic bread. You can also pair it with a light red wine to truly enjoy the flavors.

I personally love to serve this casserole with a simple side of steamed broccoli. Its fresh, green crunch provides a wonderful contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta, making it a perfectly balanced and satisfying meal to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute different types of pasta in this Quick Chicken Parm Casserole?

Yes, absolutely! While penne works great, you can use ziti, rotini, or even farfalle. Just ensure you cook it al dente to prevent it from getting mushy in the casserole. I’ve found that sturdy shapes hold up best.

→ How do I make this Amazing Quick Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead, or can I freeze it?

You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. For freezing, assemble without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking, adding about 15-20 minutes to cook time.

→ How do I prevent my Chicken Parmesan Casserole from becoming soupy?

The key is to always let your casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the cheese and sauce to set, preventing a soupy consistency. I learned this the hard way, so don’t skip the rest period.

→ Can I make this casserole gluten-free for dietary needs?

Yes, easily! Simply substitute gluten-free penne pasta for regular pasta, ensuring it’s cooked according to package directions. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free. I’ve found many great gluten-free pasta brands that hold up well.

→ What if I don’t have pre-cooked chicken for the recipe?

If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, you’ll need to cook it first, which adds time. You can quickly boil, bake, or pan-fry chicken breasts before shredding or dicing. This ensures your casserole remains a truly quick meal.