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Easy Cheesy Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Easy Cheesy Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole - featured image
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A quick and comforting chicken parmesan casserole that combines tender chicken breasts, marinara sauce, and melted cheese baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners with minimal prep and cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
  • 2 cups (16 fl oz) marinara sauce
  • 2 cups (7 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese, fresh shredded
  • ½ cup (1.75 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pat dry the chicken breasts and lightly coat them with olive oil.
  3. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken and toss gently to coat.
  4. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  5. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon.
  6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, followed by grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Optionally tent the dish loosely with aluminum foil to keep moisture in.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  9. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to achieve a golden cheese crust, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  11. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

Use fresh shredded cheese for better melting and flavor. Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F). For a crispier top, remove foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. Leftovers reheat well in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes. Can substitute chicken thighs for juicier results. For gluten-free, use gluten-free marinara and breadcrumbs. Dairy-free cheese alternatives can be used for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, casserole, dump and bake, easy dinner, weeknight meal, cheesy chicken, comfort food

Find it online: https://nadinetable.com/easy-cheesy-dump-and-bake-chicken-parmesan-casserole-recipe-for-perfect-weeknight-dinner/