Introduction

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Layers of tender breaded chicken, rigatoni pasta, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese come together to create a hearty meal perfect for family dinners.

A white rectangular dish filled with a baked casserole showing two main layers. The bottom layer is golden-brown crunchy bread sticks arranged side by side. The top layer is melted white cheese, unevenly covering the bread sticks and mixed with red tomato sauce creating bright red patches. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled over the top. There is a silver spoon with a wooden handle placed inside the dish on the right side. The dish is set on a white marbled surface with a blue striped cloth visible on the right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¾ pound rigatoni pasta
32 oz. marinara sauce (or up to 48 oz. for saucier pasta)
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
¾ cup flour
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
2 eggs
1½ cups Italian breadcrumbs
¾ cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, to garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the rigatoni for 1 minute less than the package instructions indicate for al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Toss with 32 oz. of marinara sauce, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Set aside.
Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry and cut them into ½ inch thick strips. Prepare three bowls: one with flour, seasoned salt, and pepper mixed together; the second with whisked eggs; and the third with Italian breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, dip briefly in the eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumbs. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to flatten slightly.
Step 4: Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large pan over medium-high heat until the butter melts and the oil is shimmering. Cook the chicken strips in batches for about 4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Add more oil if needed. Transfer cooked strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish. Spread half of the rigatoni and sauce mixture in the dish. Layer half of the chicken pieces over it, then sprinkle with 2 tablespoons Parmesan and 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Add the remaining rigatoni, top with the rest of the chicken strips, and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. For a browner, crispier top, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
Substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier result.
Use your favorite marinara sauce or make your own for a homemade touch.
To lighten the dish, bake the breaded chicken strips instead of frying them.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. For best texture, reheat uncovered in the oven to maintain crispiness.

How to Serve

A close-up of a plate with baked pasta showing two layers; the bottom layer is rigatoni pasta covered in a thick, chunky orange-red tomato sauce mixed with ground meat, and the top layer is melted, golden-brown cheese with some white spots and light browning in parts, sprinkled with green herbs. The dish is served on a white plate with a fork partially visible to the side, all set on a white marbled surface with a soft fabric in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Serve with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.