Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This recipe for chicken Parmesan casserole is a delicious—and lighter—twist on classic chicken Parmesan. There's enough sauce for every bite of chicken, panko pairs with Parmesan cheese for a crisp topping, and sliced mozzarella melts nicely over the top of each chicken breast for a cheesy finish. A garnish of parsley at the end keeps things bright and adds a nice touch of freshness.

While the casserole isn't packed with pasta or buckets of cheese, it makes a wonderful pairing with pasta on the side or simple steamed vegetables. Everyone gets to build their own meal, and who doesn't love that?

Make this chicken Parmesan casserole tonight and expect rave reviews. Bonus tip: Any leftovers make an extra tasty version of a meatball sliders.

Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Casserole

To make this simple casserole, you'll need:

• Marinara sauce: A saucy base for the chicken. We love Rao's, but use whatever sauce you prefer.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: For a classic chicken Parmesan presentation.
• Kosher salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper: For seasoning the chicken.
• Olive oil: For browning the chicken on the stovetop before baking.
• Sliced mozzarella cheese: Tops each chicken breast for a cheesy finish; can substitute with shredded mozzarella if needed.
• Panko: Mixed with Parmesan, butter, and thyme for a satisfying, crisp topping that will save you the cumbersome step of breading the chicken.
• Flat-leaf parsley: For garnishing the dish before serving; can also use fresh basil.

How To Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This casserole can be pulled together quickly for a light but satisfying meal in under an hour. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Pour marinara into an 11- x 7-inch broiler-safe baking dish; set aside.
• Step 2. Season chicken. Heat oil in a large skillet and cook chicken until browned, 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat. It's OK if the chicken isn't cooked to temperature here, It'll keep cooking in the oven.
• Step 3. Arrange chicken over marinara, and top with mozzarella. Bake on middle oven rack until chicken reaches 160°F, about 20 minutes.
• Step 4. Stir together panko, Parmesan, butter, and thyme.
• Step 5. Top each breast with panko mixture. Broil on upper oven rack until lightly browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.

What To Serve With Chicken Parmesan Casserole

A lighter version than the traditional chicken Parmesan (or Parmigiana), these cheesy, saucy chicken breasts can be served up for a light weeknight meal with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a more indulgent option, pair with buttery garlic bread and a side of pasta.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Wrap and refrigerate leftover chicken Parmesan casserole for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Bring to room temperature, then cover and bake in a preheated 350°F oven until hot throughout before serving.

More Chicken Parmesan-Inspired Recipes You'll Love

You can't go wrong with a combination of chicken, tomato sauce, and cheese. From meatballs to pizza, these chicken Parmesan-inspired recipes are satisfying twists on the Italian classic:

• Chicken-Parmesan Meatballs
• Easy Chicken Parmesan
• Crispy Onions and Parmesan Chicken-Broccoli Casserole
• Chicken Parmesan Pizza
• Pan-Fried Chicken-and-Ham Parmesan
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.