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Chicken Parmesan Casserole

A hearty and comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce layered over perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. Perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce

  • 3/4 pound rigatoni pasta
  • 32 oz. marinara sauce You can use up to 48 oz. for a saucier pasta.

Cheeses

  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 1 cup for mixing, 2 cups for layering
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided 2 tablespoons for mixing, additional for layering

Chicken and Coating

  • 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 3/4 cup flour
  • 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil For frying
  • 2 tablespoons butter For frying

Garnish

  • to taste fresh parsley For garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook the rigatoni pasta in a large pot of boiling water for about 1 minute less than al dente according to package instructions. Drain and combine with 32 oz. of marinara sauce, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella in a large bowl. Set aside.
  • Cut the chicken breasts into 1/2 inch thick strips. Prepare breading station with three bowls: Bowl 1 - flour mixed with seasoned salt and pepper, Bowl 2 - whisked eggs, Bowl 3 - Italian breadcrumbs.

Cooking Chicken

  • Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, dip in the egg, then roll in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
  • Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken strips for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and place on paper towels.

Assembling the Casserole

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9 x 13 inch casserole dish, layer half of the rigatoni mixture, followed by half of the chicken, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan, and 1 cup of mozzarella. Repeat the layers.

Baking

  • Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes. For a crispy top, increase temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Serving

  • Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve.

Notes

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables or using different cheese types. The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
Keyword Casserole, Chicken Parmesan, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Meal