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Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting dish featuring crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey melted mozzarella, all baked together for a delightful meal perfect for families and gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 3/4 pound rigatoni pasta A hearty pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully.
  • 32 oz. marinara sauce Use a quality brand or homemade for freshness.
Cheeses
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Ensure it's the good quality for gooey melt.
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nuttiness to the dish.
Chicken and Breading
  • 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender and lean protein.
  • 3/4 cup flour For coating the chicken.
  • 2 teaspoons seasoned salt Enhances the chicken flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper A touch of spice.
  • 2 large eggs Helps with the breading process.
  • 1 1/2 cups Italian breadcrumbs Provides delightful crunch.
Cooking Essentials
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil For frying.
  • 2 tablespoons butter For flavor and richness.
Garnish
  • to taste Fresh parsley For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil water and cook the rigatoni for 1 minute less than al dente. Drain and toss with 32 oz. of marinara sauce, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella. Set aside.
  2. Pat the chicken dry and cut into 1/2 inch thick strips. Prepare a breading station with flour, seasoned salt, pepper, whisked eggs, and Italian breadcrumbs.
Cooking
  1. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. Fry in heated oil and butter for about 4 minutes on each side until golden.
  2. Transfer fried chicken to paper towels to drain excess oil and slice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish. Layer half of the rigatoni/sauce mixture, half of the chicken strips, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan, and 1 cup of mozzarella. Repeat with remaining layers.
  4. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, then if desired, increase to 425°F and bake for an additional 5 minutes for a browner top.
Serving
  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with garlic bread.

Notes

This casserole tastes even better the next day as flavors meld overnight. It's perfect for leftovers and can be frozen for up to 3 months.