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Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Chicken Parmesan Casserole tast
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A delicious and comforting Chicken Parmesan Casserole that combines rigatoni pasta, marinara sauce, and crispy chicken strips topped with melted cheese.

  • Author: Ghalina
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking and Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • ¾ pound rigatoni pasta (about 3 cups uncooked)
  • 32–48 ounces marinara sauce
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1–1.25 pounds total)
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1½ cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • ¾ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook for 1 minute less than the al dente time suggested on the package (usually about 9-10 minutes). Drain the pasta in a colander but do not rinse it.
  2. Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add 32 ounces of marinara sauce, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Gently stir until the pasta is evenly coated with sauce and cheese. Set aside.
  3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and slice into strips about ½ inch thick. Set up a breading station with flour mixture, whisked eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  4. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs. Flatten slightly and place on a plate.
  5. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and butter over medium-high heat. Cook chicken strips for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  6. Once cooled, cut chicken strips into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
  8. Spoon half of the pasta mixture into the dish, top with half of the chicken pieces, sprinkle with cheese, and repeat layers. Finish with remaining cheese on top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. For a crispy top, increase temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 5 minutes.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use more marinara sauce for a saucier casserole.
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Letting the casserole rest helps the cheese set for easier serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeshungry.com/chicken-parmesan-casserole-recipe-comfort-food/