Description
Savory chicken parmesan casserole combines classic Italian flavors in a hearty one-pan meal. Crispy chicken, melted cheese, and marinara sauce create a comforting dish perfect for family dinners with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Breading Ingredients:
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with a light coating of olive oil.
- Combine breadcrumbs, flour, and all dried seasonings in a shallow dish, creating a uniform breading mixture.
- Whisk eggs in a separate bowl to create a smooth binding agent for coating the chicken.
- Dip each chicken breast into the whisked eggs, ensuring complete coverage, then carefully dredge through the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help crumbs adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and quickly sear each breaded chicken piece until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish, arranging pieces in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheeses across the top, creating a complete cheese coverage.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and cheese is melted and slightly bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals, ensuring the same crispy texture without compromising taste.
- Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce overall fat content and create a leaner protein option for health-conscious diners.
- Add fresh basil or parsley as a garnish just before serving to introduce a vibrant, fresh element that elevates the dish’s visual appeal and provides a bright herbal note.
- For a lighter version, consider baking the chicken instead of pan-searing, which reduces oil usage while maintaining a golden exterior through careful oven-browning techniques.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 37 g
- Cholesterol: 155 mg