Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole That’s Cheesy & Family-Approved

Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole is your answer to “What’s for dinner?” when the clock is ticking and your stomach’s already grumbling. This dish takes all the comforting Italian flavors we love—crispy chicken, rich marinara, melty cheese—and layers them into a one-pan wonder.

The best part? No need for frying or fancy plating. Just toss, layer, and bake. Whether it’s a weeknight or you’re feeding a small crowd, this casserole gets rave reviews and zero complaints (even from picky eaters). It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor, and bonus—it tastes just as good the next day. If you love recipes like Crack Chicken Noodle Soup or Easy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, this one will earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

Table of Contents

What is Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole is like the laid-back cousin of traditional chicken parm. You still get that signature trio—juicy chicken, zesty marinara, and gooey cheese—but without the mess of breading and frying. Instead of making everything from scratch or standing over a skillet, this recipe keeps things cozy and low-stress. Bite-sized chicken pieces are layered with sauce and cheese, sprinkled with crispy breadcrumbs, and baked until bubbly.

Think of it as a cross between lasagna and baked ziti—but with chicken and way fewer steps. It’s a one-dish dinner that delivers the comfort of Italian cooking, minus the effort. Great for meal prep, potlucks, or just feeding your family without hearing the dreaded “What is this?” question.

Reasons to Try Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole

First off, Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights. It uses ingredients you probably already have—chicken, marinara, cheese, and breadcrumbs—and comes together in under an hour. No dredging, no frying, and definitely no extra dishes to wash. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that feels homemade without being a whole production.

Plus, it’s picky-eater approved, freezer-friendly, and easy to double for larger families. Whether you’re craving something hearty or trying to clean out the fridge, this dish has your back. If you’ve tried our Creamy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole or Easy Enchilada Casserole, you already know how much we love dishes that save time without skimping on flavor.

Ingredients Needed to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional but lovely)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Making this Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole step by step couldn’t be more straightforward—and honestly, once you do it once, you’ll probably be making it on autopilot every week. Here’s your no-stress, flavor-packed guide to making this dish from start to cheesy finish. Perfect for beginners, pros, or anyone who’s just plain hungry. Let’s dive in.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab your favorite 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a generous spray with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents any sticky situations (literally) and makes cleanup way easier. If you’re planning ahead, you can even prep your dish and refrigerate it until it’s time to bake.

Want to cut down on cleanup time even more? Check out our tip-packed guide on meal prep casseroles for storing and baking directly from the fridge or freezer.

Step 2: Cut and Season the Chicken

Grab your 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Keep the size consistent so everything cooks evenly. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. This simple seasoning makes a big difference in flavor.

Short on time? You can totally swap in rotisserie chicken or even pre-cooked grilled chicken strips. Learn more about easy chicken swaps that won’t compromise on taste.

Step 3: Start Layering – The First Round

Now comes the fun part—layering! Start by spreading half of your seasoned chicken evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce over the chicken and gently spread it out. Sprinkle on 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover as much of the chicken as possible.

This layering is key to that melty, cheesy bite in every forkful. If you want a saucier casserole, feel free to add a little extra marinara (we won’t judge).

Step 4: Repeat the Layers

Repeat the magic: add the remaining half of the chicken, then pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce on top. Next, add the second cup of mozzarella cheese, and finally, sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese across the top. Parmesan adds that salty, nutty finish that ties it all together.

Pro tip: For extra texture, mix in ½ cup of Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs before baking or add them in the last 10 minutes for a golden, crunchy top. Want more crunchy-topped casseroles? You’ll love our Easy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole.

Step 5: Cover and Bake (First Bake)

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps trap the steam and allows the chicken to cook through while keeping everything moist. Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

While it’s baking, clean up your prep area or throw together a quick side salad. Need inspiration? Our readers often pair this casserole with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a full meal.

Step 6: Uncover and Brown (Second Bake)

After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. The cheese should already be melty, but now we’re going for that dreamy golden top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly browned and bubbling at the edges.

Want an even crispier top? Turn on your broiler for the last 2-3 minutes—but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t go from golden to burnt in a flash.

Step 7: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

Once it’s beautifully browned and bubbly, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5–10 minutes. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve (and saving your tongue from scorching hot cheese burns—trust us on this one).

Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil for a pop of color and freshness. Not a basil fan? Try parsley or skip the garnish altogether—it’s your kitchen, your rules.

Now all that’s left is to scoop and serve. Pair it with a glass of wine, a crisp salad, or even Stuffed Bell Peppers for a double win.

What to Serve with Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole

You’ve got your cheesy, saucy main covered—now let’s round it out. For a simple and satisfying side, toss together a crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette or serve some roasted veggies. If you’re leaning full-on comfort food (and hey, no shame in that!), whip up a batch of garlic bread or buttery noodles. Craving something lighter? Try it with steamed broccoli or Crack Chicken Noodle Soup as a starter. You could even slice up some fresh tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of sea salt for a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. Oh—and don’t forget the wine or sparkling water with lemon. Hydration is key, right?

Key Tips for Making Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Want this to come out perfect every time? Here’s what you need to know. First, don’t skip seasoning the chicken—no one wants bland bites. If you’re using jarred marinara, go for a high-quality one (or add a pinch of sugar and red pepper flakes to boost flavor). Fresh mozzarella is dreamy but pre-shredded saves time and sanity. Want a crunchier topping? Mix some breadcrumbs with melted butter and toss them on top for the last 10 minutes of baking. And finally, let it rest a few minutes before digging in. It helps everything set and saves your tongue from molten cheese burns—learned that the hard way.

Storage and Reheating Tips Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Leftovers? Lucky you. This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days—just cover it tightly or use an airtight container. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just cover your portion and zap it in 30-second bursts until hot. Freezing? Totally doable. Wrap it up tight (foil, plastic wrap, or a freezer-safe dish with a lid) and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Bonus tip: slice it into single servings before freezing so you can grab and go.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. It’s a great time-saver. Just shred it and follow the layering steps.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yep! Just swap the breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free version and check that your marinara is gluten-free.

Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake it straight from the fridge—add 5 extra minutes to the cook time.

Can I add pasta to this?
Totally. Cook and drain some pasta, then mix it into the sauce before layering. It becomes more of a baked pasta dish.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort without the chaos, Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole is your weeknight hero. It’s got that melty cheese magic, a saucy kick, and just enough crisp on top to keep things interesting. Plus, it feeds a crowd (or your future self, if you stash some in the freezer). So go ahead—print the recipe, grab the chicken, and make tonight delicious. Want more cozy ideas? You’ll love our Easy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole or KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole next.

Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.

Print