In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, finding a delicious and easy - to - make dinner can be a real challenge. But fear not! Today, we're going to explore a wonderful dump and bake chicken Parmesan casserole recipe that combines the beloved flavors of the classic dish with a much - needed weeknight upgrade.
One of the greatest advantages of this chicken Parmesan casserole is its simplicity. You only need about 10 minutes of your precious time to get this mouth - watering creation into the oven. This means that even on the busiest of evenings, you can still enjoy a home - cooked meal that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant.
Let's start by gathering the ingredients. For the chicken, you'll want to choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These are not only easy to work with but also a healthier option. Cut the chicken into small, bite - sized pieces. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly throughout the casserole. You'll also need some marinara sauce. The rich, tangy flavor of the marinara is what gives this casserole its Italian charm. Opt for a high - quality sauce with real tomatoes and herbs for the best taste.
Next up is the cheese. Mozzarella is a must - have for any chicken Parmesan dish. Its stretchy, gooey texture is simply irresistible. You can use shredded mozzarella or even fresh mozzarella balls, torn into smaller pieces. Parmesan cheese is another key ingredient. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top adds a nutty, savory flavor that takes the casserole to the next level.
To add some crunch and texture, you'll need breadcrumbs. You can use regular breadcrumbs or make your own by toasting some stale bread and then grinding it in a food processor. For an extra boost of flavor, you can mix in some garlic powder, dried basil, and oregano into the breadcrumbs.
Now, let's get to the actual cooking process. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature, usually around 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, pour a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and add an extra layer of flavor. Place the cut - up chicken pieces on top of the sauce. Pour another layer of marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are well - coated.
Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese over the chicken and sauce. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, cheesy layer that everyone will love. Then, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top of the cheese. The breadcrumbs will form a crispy crust as the casserole bakes.
Once your casserole is all assembled, it's time to put it in the oven. Set a timer for about 25 - 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can check the doneness of the chicken by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken piece. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
While the casserole is baking, you can quickly prepare a simple side salad. A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing is the perfect accompaniment to the rich and cheesy chicken Parmesan casserole. It adds a refreshing crunch and a burst of vitamins and nutrients.
When the timer goes off, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set a bit and makes it easier to cut and serve. Ladle the chicken Parmesan casserole onto plates and top it with a little extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
This dump and bake chicken Parmesan casserole is not only a hit with adults but also with kids. Its familiar flavors and easy - to - eat format make it a family - friendly meal. You can even get the kids involved in the preparation process. They can help with cutting the chicken, sprinkling the cheese, or mixing the breadcrumbs. It's a great way to spend time together in the kitchen and create lasting memories.
In conclusion, this chicken Parmesan casserole is a true winner. It's quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. Whether you're a busy professional, a stay - at - home parent, or just someone who loves good food, this recipe is definitely worth trying. So, the next time you're looking for a weeknight dinner idea, give this dump and bake chicken Parmesan casserole a go. You won't be disappointed!
