If you are looking for a comforting dish that combines all the best flavors of Italian-American cuisine in one hearty, crowd-pleasing meal, then this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes the classic elements of chicken parmesan — crispy chicken, rich marinara, creamy cheeses — and layers them with pasta and sauces in a baked casserole that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole delivers flavor, nostalgia, and ease all in one pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is built on simple, staple ingredients that come together to create a dish full of texture, taste, and beautiful color. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender pasta to the cheesy, saucy goodness.
- Campanelle pasta (16 oz): Its ruffled edges hold sauce perfectly for every bite.
- Vodka sauce (24 oz): Adds a creamy, tangy richness that balances the dish.
- Frozen popcorn chicken (24 oz): Provides crispy chicken pieces that keep their crunch even after baking.
- Ricotta cheese (3 cups): Adds a smooth, creamy texture and mild flavor.
- Grated parmesan cheese (1½ cups, divided): Brings sharp, nutty depth to the casserole.
- Dried parsley (4 tsp): A simple herb that adds fresh color and a subtle flavor boost.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance every other ingredient.
- Marinara sauce (24 oz): A classic tomato sauce that adds moisture and tang.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully, creating gooey, cheesy layers.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. This sets the foundation for an easy-to-clean, perfectly baked dish with no sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add the campanelle pasta. Cook it according to package instructions until al dente, which means it should be tender but still with a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside; this ensures it won’t become mushy once baked.
Step 3: Mix the Sauces, Cheese, and Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the vodka sauce, ricotta cheese, dried parsley, and half of the parmesan cheese. This mixture creates the creamy and flavorful base of your casserole. Stir in the frozen popcorn chicken (no need to thaw) and the cooked pasta, then season generously with salt and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients now helps infuse every bite with balanced flavor.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Start by spreading half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Add half of the pasta and chicken mixture on top of the sauce. Next, sprinkle evenly with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and half a cup of parmesan cheese. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cheeses, then add the rest of the pasta mixture. Finish with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese to form a beautiful cheesy crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes. Look for bubbling sauce and melted, golden cheese on top. When the cheese is beautifully melted and slightly browned, your dish is ready. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a lovely pop of color and freshness before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a bit of freshly chopped parsley or torn basil leaves over the top not only brightens the look but also adds a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add crunch and freshness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make fantastic companions to scoop up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a pretty, personalized touch at dinner parties. You can also layer the casserole in a clear glass dish for a stunning visual showing all the vibrant layers, or add a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving to enhance the tomato flavor even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day enjoyment.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe in individual portions or as a whole dish. Wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat single servings in the microwave until hot and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes, or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes. If reheating from frozen, tent with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40-50 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen popcorn chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook and dice fresh chicken breast, season it, and add it to the casserole. The popcorn chicken just offers a convenient shortcut with its crispy texture maintained after baking.
Is vodka sauce necessary or can I substitute another sauce?
Vodka sauce adds creaminess and a subtle tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully here, but you can substitute it with your favorite marinara or tomato basil sauce if preferred.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the campanelle pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Many frozen popcorn chicken options also offer gluten-free varieties.
How spicy is this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe?
This dish is not spicy but full of rich flavor. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes either in the sauce or on top before baking if you want a little heat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! Assemble the casserole as directed, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is the kind of recipe you’ll want to bookmark, share, and make again and again. Its blend of flavors and textures hits all the right notes — cheesy, crispy, saucy, and comforting. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite on your dinner table. Give it a try and get ready for some serious compliments!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining tender campanelle pasta, crispy popcorn chicken, and rich cheeses baked together in a flavorful blend of vodka and marinara sauces. It’s perfect for a family dinner, delivering the beloved flavors of classic chicken parmesan in an easy-to-prepare casserole form.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 1 (16-oz) campanelle pasta
- 1 (24-oz) bag frozen popcorn chicken
Sauces and Cheese
- 1 (24-oz) jar vodka sauce
- 1 (24-oz) jar marinara sauce
- 3 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1½ cups grated parmesan cheese, divided
Seasonings
- 4 tsp dried parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the campanelle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Mix Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vodka sauce, ricotta cheese, dried parsley, and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese. Add the cooked pasta and frozen popcorn chicken to the bowl, stirring gently to mix all ingredients evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Layer the Casserole: Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Spread half of the pasta mixture over the sauce. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese evenly over this layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce on top. Spread the remaining pasta mixture over the sauce, and finish by topping with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: After baking, sprinkle additional dried parsley or fresh basil over the casserole for a fresh garnish. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Chicken Parmesan Casserole!
Notes
- Using frozen popcorn chicken saves prep time and adds a crispy texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference, especially since cheeses and sauces may vary in saltiness.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a lower-fat version, use part-skim ricotta and reduce the amount of mozzarella.
- Fresh basil can be substituted for dried parsley for a different herbal flavor.
