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Easy Cheesy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

easy cheesy dump-and-bake chicken parmesan casserole - featured image

A simple, no-fuss chicken parmesan casserole that layers chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese for a comforting family dinner. This recipe skips breading and frying, making it quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 700 g)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (480 ml), preferably garlic-herb flavored
  • 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese (about 200 g)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme blend)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  3. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the casserole dish.
  4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the sauce in a single layer. Slice thick breasts horizontally if needed for even cooking.
  5. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken breasts.
  6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top, followed by grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If cheese browns too fast, tent loosely with foil after 20 minutes.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F for juicy results. Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly. Let casserole rest before serving to allow sauce to thicken. Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; add extra baking time if baking cold. For a crispier top, broil for last 2 minutes watching carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan casserole, easy chicken casserole, dump and bake, cheesy chicken recipe, family dinner, quick chicken dinner