Parmesan Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite size pieces

½ pound rotini pasta, boiled to al dente

2 cups of your favorite spaghetti sauce

1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning

15 ounces drained, diced tomatoes

2 tbsp softened unsalted butter

½ cup Panko bread crumbs

¼ tsp garlic powder

2 tbsp Parsley, chopped

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 375*

Boil noodles until they are to your liking

Step 2:

In a deep baking dish, combine the chicken, spaghetti sauce, italian seasoning and diced tomatoes

Stir until well combined

Step 3:

Add the cooked and drained noodles, stir to combine well

Put the mozzarella cheese on top of the noodles and meat mix

Step 4:

Mix together in a bowl the Panko bread crumbs, butter, parmesan cheese, garlic powder and parsley and mix well

Spread this mix over the top of the mozzarella cheese layer

Step 5:

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes

Serve warm

Notes:

Simple and Comforting: This recipe offers a comforting and hearty meal with tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and cheesy goodness, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Versatile Protein: While the recipe calls for boneless chicken thighs, you can easily swap them with chicken breasts, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Customizable Pasta: Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape instead of rotini. Just ensure it’s cooked to al dente to maintain a pleasing texture in the casserole.

Herbaceous Flavor: Italian seasoning adds a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.

Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, making it a convenient option for busy days. Bake it when ready to serve, possibly adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

Store-Bought Sauce: Utilizing store-bought spaghetti sauce saves time without compromising flavor, though homemade sauce is also an option for those who prefer it.

Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers freeze well, making it a great option for meal prep. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Accompaniments: Serve alongside a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to complete the meal and add variety to the plate.

Gluten-Free Adaptation: For a gluten-free version, skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the casserole for added flavor and nutrients. Just ensure they’re cooked to your desired doneness.

Baking Indicator: The casserole is ready when it’s bubbly, the cheese is melted, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown, usually after about 25 to 30 minutes at 375°F.

Nutrition Information:

SERVING SIZE: 1

Amount Per Serving:

Nutrition Information:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in this Parmesan Chicken Casserole?

Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken breasts for thighs, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Certainly! While the recipe suggests rotini, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

Just ensure it’s cooked to al dente.

What’s the purpose of Italian seasoning in this recipe?

Italian seasoning adds a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it.

Bake when ready to serve, possibly adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

Is it okay to use store-bought spaghetti sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite store-bought spaghetti sauce or homemade if you prefer.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container.

Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve alongside this Parmesan Chicken Casserole?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make great sides.

Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also complements the dish.

Can I omit breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version?

Yes, you can skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative if you’re looking to make the recipe gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for additional flavors and nutrients.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when it’s bubbly, the cheese is melted, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

This usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes at 375°F.