Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that brings together the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan in an easy-to-make bake. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, it’s layered with tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, fresh basil, and a gooey blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The crunchy garlic croutons on top add a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy layers below. This dish offers all the comfort of traditional Chicken Parmesan without the fuss of breading and frying, making it a convenient and delicious option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed and finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 (8-ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 (5-ounce) package garlic croutons

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Baking Dish:

• Coat the bottom of a 9×13 inch casserole dish with the olive oil. Sprinkle the finely chopped garlic and crushed red pepper flakes evenly over the oil. This adds a flavorful base to the casserole and infuses the chicken with a gentle kick of heat.

3. Layer the Chicken:

• Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.

4. Add Fresh Basil and Cheese:

• Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the marinara sauce. The basil adds a fresh, aromatic note that complements the richness of the sauce. Next, layer half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the basil, followed by half of the grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Add Croutons and Final Cheese Layer:

• Evenly distribute the garlic croutons on top of the cheese layer. The croutons will become crispy and golden during baking, adding a wonderful texture to the casserole. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, ensuring the croutons are well-covered to prevent burning.

6. Bake:

• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes to an hour, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. The casserole is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden, the croutons are crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (no longer pink inside). If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the casserole with foil for the remaining bake time.

7. Serve:

• Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This dish is delicious on its own or served over a bed of pasta, rice, or with a side of garlic bread.

Tips:

• Chicken Breasts: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking. You can also use chicken tenderloins for a quicker bake time.
• Marinara Sauce: Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. You can also add a splash of red wine to the sauce for extra depth.
• Croutons: If you want to elevate the croutons, you can toss them in a bit of melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning before adding them to the casserole.

Serving Suggestions:
Pair this Chicken Parmesan Casserole with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal. It’s also great served over pasta, allowing the pasta to soak up the extra sauce and cheese.

Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The croutons may lose some of their crunch but will still be delicious.

This recipe takes the beloved flavors of Chicken Parmesan and transforms them into a fuss-free casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!