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Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole: The Ultimate 30-Minute Weeknight Dinner

This Chicken Parmesan Casserole transforms classic Italian flavors into a streamlined one-pan dish that's ready in just 30 minutes. Instead of breading and frying individual cutlets, tender chicken pieces are layered with marinara sauce and melted cheeses for effortless comfort food perfection.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels, then season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
  3. Pour the marinara sauce over the partially cooked chicken, stirring to combine. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese.
  4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

This casserole is perfect for meal prep - assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. For extra richness, mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone with the marinara sauce. Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts, and the recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free marinara sauce.