Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

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If you have a craving for comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this delightful Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe. It’s a mouthwatering medley of tender rigatoni pasta, crispy chicken nuggets transformed into bite-sized treasures, bright green broccoli, and layers of melty mozzarella and parmesan cheese all baked to bubbling perfection. Every spoonful delivers a perfect balance of cheesy warmth, savory tomato sauce, and just the right crunch from a breadcrumb topping that will keep you coming back for more. This dish is a fantastic way to gather family and friends around the table with something hearty, satisfying, and utterly crave-worthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe begins with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed masterpiece. Each component plays a pivotal role: from the pasta’s firm bite to the freshness of broccoli, and the perfectly seasoned chicken nuggets adding a crispy punch. Let’s dive into the essentials that will make your casserole shine.

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta: Choose rigatoni for its thick tubes that hold sauce beautifully inside each piece.
• 6 cups chicken nuggets or cut chicken tenders (Bare brand recommended): Crispy chicken pieces provide that irresistible protein foundation.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and veggies to tender perfection without overpowering the flavors.
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base layer.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that classic fragrant punch that pairs perfectly with Italian seasoning.
• 5 cups chopped broccoli: Fresh broccoli offers a pop of green, texture, and a nutritional boost.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A signature blend of herbs to tie all the ingredients together.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat without stealing the spotlight.
• 48 oz pasta sauce: Rich and tangy, the tomato sauce is the heart of this casserole.
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For gooey, melty goodness in every bite.
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty complexity that complements mozzarella perfectly.
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs: Creates an irresistible crunchy topping.
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese: Mixed with panko for a flavorful crust.
• 3 tbsp melted butter: Binds the breadcrumb topping and delivers a golden finish.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the breadcrumb mixture’s seasoning.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just a touch of spice to the topping.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings herbaceous notes to the crunchy topping.
• Fresh basil strands, for garnish: Adds a vibrant, fresh aroma and pretty color at serving time.

How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Ingredients

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when the time comes to bake. While the oven warms, cook the rigatoni following the package directions until just al dente to hold its shape inside the casserole. Drain and set aside. Then cook the chicken nuggets according to their package instructions and chop them into bite-sized chunks — cooking them first ensures they stay crisp and flavorful once baked.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or wide pot over medium-high heat. Toss in your diced onions and cook until they soften up and release their natural sweetness. Add the minced garlic and chopped broccoli next, stirring well. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Keep sautéing for 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli just begins to soften, infusing the dish with vibrant color and a wonderful mild crunch.

Step 3: Simmer Sauce

Pour in 36 ounces of the pasta sauce into the pot with your sautéed veggies, reserving the remaining 12 ounces for layering later. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on medium heat, letting the flavors meld over about 10 minutes as the broccoli becomes tender but not mushy. Once ready, turn off the heat to prepare for combining the pasta.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Stir the cooked rigatoni into the sauce and vegetable mixture, coating each noodle thoroughly. Add one cup of shredded mozzarella along with all the parmesan cheese. Mixing this in while the mixture is warm ensures the cheeses start melting, making every bite irresistibly cheesy and comforting.

Step 5: Assemble Casserole Layers

In a generous 9×13 inch casserole dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly. Layer half of the bite-sized chicken pieces on top, followed by half of the reserved pasta sauce. Sprinkle a portion of mozzarella cheese over the surface. Then repeat these layers with the remaining pasta, chicken, reserved sauce, and mozzarella, building a beautifully stacked casserole ready for its golden crust.

Step 6: Prepare Topping

Combine the panko bread crumbs, 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, melted butter, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Mix until every crumb is luxuriously coated with butter and perfectly seasoned—this mixture will give the casserole a deliciously crunchy, golden top.

Step 7: Top and Bake

Spread the breadcrumb topping evenly over the assembled casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the casserole to bubble joyfully and the topping to turn a rich golden brown, signaling the perfect balance of creamy interior and crisp crust.

Step 8: Broil and Garnish

For an extra-special finish, switch your oven to broil for the last few minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning but achieve that irresistible caramelized crunch. Once out of the oven, scatter fresh basil strands over the top, adding a pop of color and refreshing herbal aroma to complete your Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish of fresh basil strands works wonders, lending a vibrant herbal note and attractive contrast to the golden, cheesy casserole. You might also sprinkle a little extra grated parmesan on top for those who adore an even cheesier finish. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add a silky sheen and elevate the flavors at serving.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands tall on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads for freshness and a touch of acidity to balance the cheesy richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is another fabulous companion for soaking up any sauce left on your plate. Roasted veggies or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can complete the meal with brightness and texture variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe in colorful individual ramekins for a charming personal touch at dinner parties. Layer slices of fresh tomato and basil leaves inside the casserole for an eye-catching presentation. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle balsamic glaze on top for a surprising flavor twist that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover leftover Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It stays delicious for up to 4 days, making it the ideal quick dinner option later in the week without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully when assembled but not baked. Prepare the casserole through the layering step, then cover it securely with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time if still slightly frozen.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated leftovers in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese begins to melt again, about 15 to 20 minutes. For a crispier topping, finish with a quick broil for 2 to 3 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to retain the casserole’s wonderful texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of nuggets in this Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! If using fresh chicken tenders or breasts, cook and dice them before layering in the casserole. This adds a homemade touch, though nuggets keep it quick and convenient without sacrificing flavor.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the rigatoni with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make the casserole safe for gluten-sensitive eaters while maintaining all the delicious textures and flavors.

Can I add other vegetables besides broccoli?

Definitely feel free to customize your casserole by adding veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic to ensure they meld perfectly into the saucy base.

How spicy is this Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe?

This dish is gently seasoned and not spicy at all, making it perfect for all ages. If you like a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce or topping to suit your taste.

Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the chicken nuggets with plant-based chicken alternatives or extra vegetables like eggplant or zucchini to create a vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as satisfying.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a cozy casserole that brings everyone together, and this Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is just that kind of dish. With its layers of comforting pasta, cheesy goodness, and crispy topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes weeknights easier and weekends a little more festive. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dinner to share with those you love.

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