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To make a tasty Chicken Parmesan Casserole, gather these items: - 2 cups shredded cooked rotisserie chicken - 1 cup cooked penne pasta - 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or your favorite) - 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - ½ teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - Fresh basil leaves for garnish You can add some fun flavors with these optional ingredients: - Sliced black olives for a briny kick - Chopped spinach for extra greens - Red pepper flakes for heat - Sautéed mushrooms for earthiness - A splash of white wine for depth If you have dietary needs, try these swaps: - Use gluten-free pasta instead of penne for a gluten-free option. - Replace ricotta with cashew cheese for a dairy-free choice. - Use grilled chicken instead of rotisserie for a healthier option. - Swap marinara for pesto if you want a twist on flavor. These ingredients and options will help you create a delicious Chicken Parmesan Casserole that fits your taste and needs. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above. Happy cooking! To make this Chicken Parmesan Casserole, you will need to gather your ingredients first. This recipe is simple and fun. Gather your chicken, pasta, sauce, and cheeses. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step helps cook the dish evenly. 1. In a large mixing bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the cooked penne pasta and marinara sauce. Make sure to coat everything well. 2. In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. 3. Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish lightly. Start layering the food. Place half of the chicken and pasta mix in the dish first. 4. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the chicken layer. Then, add half of the mozzarella cheese on top. 5. Next, add the rest of the chicken and pasta mix. Follow this with the remaining ricotta and top with the rest of the mozzarella. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese. 1. Cover your casserole with aluminum foil. This keeps it moist while baking. 2. Bake it for 25 minutes in the preheated oven. After that, remove the foil. 3. Bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown. 4. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Parmesan Casserole! For full details, check the Full Recipe. To make your Chicken Parmesan Casserole perfect, follow these tips: - Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. - Cook pasta just until al dente. This keeps it firm. - Mix the chicken and pasta well with sauce. This helps every bite taste great. - Layer ingredients evenly for a balanced flavor. - Cover the dish with foil until the last 15 minutes. This keeps it moist. You can make this dish healthier with these ideas: - Swap regular pasta for whole grain or veggie pasta. - Use low-fat ricotta cheese to cut fat. - Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. - Use homemade marinara sauce with fresh tomatoes and herbs. This cuts out added sugars. Boost the flavor of your casserole with these tips: - Add crushed red pepper for some heat. - Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. They add brightness. - Use different cheeses, like pepper jack, for a twist. - Top it with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy layer. For a complete guide to making this dish, check the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can enjoy a tasty vegetarian version of this casserole. Use plant-based chicken strips instead of rotisserie chicken. For the sauce, try a rich marinara made with fresh tomatoes and herbs. This keeps the dish full of flavor. You can also add in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for more texture and nutrition. This way, everyone can enjoy a hearty meal. To make this dish gluten-free, swap out regular pasta for gluten-free penne. Many brands offer great options that taste just as good. You can also check the marinara sauce labels to ensure they are gluten-free. For cheese, most varieties are gluten-free, but always double-check. This way, you can satisfy those with gluten sensitivities without losing flavor. While penne is great, you can mix it up with other pasta shapes. Try rotini for a fun twist that holds sauce well. Fusilli or farfalle can also work beautifully. You can even use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Each shape adds a unique look and feel to your casserole. Choose whatever you love or have on hand. The options are endless! For more detailed cooking steps, check out the Full Recipe. To keep your Chicken Parmesan Casserole fresh, let it cool first. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to eat it later, freezing is a great option. When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat it for about 20-25 minutes. If you want a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. To freeze, wrap the casserole well in plastic wrap and then in foil. You can also use a freezer-safe container. The casserole can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This method helps keep the flavor and texture intact. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Cook it first to ensure it is safe to eat. You can bake or boil it until fully cooked. Shred the chicken and mix it with the pasta and sauce. This option offers a fresh taste and control over seasoning. To make a dairy-free version, replace the ricotta and mozzarella cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Use dairy-free cream cheese or a nut-based cheese for the ricotta. For mozzarella, look for plant-based shreds. Check labels to ensure they are dairy-free. This way, you keep the creamy texture and flavor. Chicken Parmesan Casserole pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - A fresh green salad with vinaigrette - Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans - Garlic bread or crusty bread - A light soup, like minestrone These sides balance the rich flavors and make a full meal. For more details, check the Full Recipe. This blog post covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for Chicken Parmesan Casserole. I shared ways to modify the recipe for dietary needs and offered storage advice. Always remember, you can adapt this dish to suit your taste. Whether you choose different pasta or make it dairy-free, enjoy the cooking process. With these insights, you can make a tasty casserole that fits your life. Dive in, have fun, and make it your own!

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Get ready to savor the comforting flavors of Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Casserole! This easy recipe combines shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella with zesty marinara for a heartwarming meal you'll love. Perfect for family dinners, it's simple to make and packed with flavor.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups shredded cooked rotisserie chicken

1 cup cooked penne pasta

2 cups marinara sauce (preferably homemade or your favorite brand)

1 cup creamy ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot when the casserole goes in.

    In a generous mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken with the cooked penne pasta and marinara sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly so that the chicken and pasta are completely coated in sauce.

      In a clean separate bowl, blend the ricotta cheese with the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth.

        Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Begin building your layers by adding half of the chicken and pasta mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.

          Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the first layer, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta layer.

            Layer on the remaining chicken and pasta mixture, followed by the rest of the ricotta. Top off with the remaining mozzarella and finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

              Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep it moist while baking. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.

                After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and has turned a beautiful golden brown.

                  Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 6 servings

                      - Presentation Tips: For an inviting presentation, serve individual portions in shallow bowls. Drizzle with extra marinara sauce and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty and delicious dish!