A comforting baked chicken parmesan casserole with crispy breaded chicken, rigatoni, marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni 1 minute less than al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
2. Toss the pasta with marinara sauce, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, and 1 cup mozzarella. Set aside.
3. Pat the chicken dry and cut into 1/2-inch thick strips.
4. Prepare breading stations: combine flour, seasoned salt, and pepper in one bowl; whisk eggs in another; add breadcrumbs to a third.
5. Dredge chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then coat in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
6. Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Transfer chicken to a paper towel-lined plate, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
9. Layer half the pasta, half the chicken, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, and 1 cup mozzarella.
10. Add remaining pasta, chicken, and remaining cheeses on top.
11. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. For a crispier top, increase heat to 425°F and bake 5 additional minutes.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Use whole milk, low-moisture mozzarella for best melting results.
You can substitute frozen chicken tenders or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This casserole can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.
Add extra sauce before reheating to keep the pasta from drying out.
Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/chicken-parmesan-casserole/