If you have been searching for a comforting dish that perfectly balances hearty textures with luscious flavors, this Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender rigatoni pasta mingling with crispy chicken nuggets, nestled in a savory tomato sauce studded with tender broccoli, all crowned with a golden, cheesy breadcrumb topping. This casserole is straightforward to prepare, wonderfully satisfying, and absolutely a crowd-pleaser—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering. Each bite delivers warmth and familiarity, making it a go-to recipe to keep in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe plays an essential role—from the al dente rigatoni giving body and bite, to the flavorful chicken nuggets adding protein and crispness, and the broccoli bringing a fresh pop of color and nutrition. Together with a blend of cheeses and seasonings, these items create a symphony of taste and texture in every forkful.
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta: Choose rigatoni for its ridges and tube shape that trap sauce beautifully.
- 6 cups chicken nuggets or cut chicken tenders (Bare brand recommended): Provides tender, crispy chicken pieces that complement the casserole.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and adding a rich, fruity base flavor.
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when cooked.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and savory notes.
- 5 cups chopped broccoli: Offers a nutritious crunch and lovely green color.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that enhances the dish’s Italian-inspired profile.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds mild heat and earthiness.
- 48 oz pasta sauce: Rich tomato base that keeps the dish moist and flavorful.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey perfection, binding the casserole.
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty accent to the cheesy layers.
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs: Creates an irresistibly crunchy topping when baked.
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (for topping): Sprinkled on top for extra savory crispness.
- 3 tbsp melted butter: Ensures the breadcrumb topping turns golden and flavorful.
- 1/2 tsp salt (for topping): Enhances the breadcrumb mixture’s taste.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (for topping): Adds a subtle kick to the crust.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (for topping): Brings herby fragrance to the golden crust.
- Fresh basil strands, for garnish: A fresh, colorful finish that signals pure deliciousness.
How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente, then drain and set aside. For the chicken nuggets, follow package cooking instructions and cut them into bite-sized pieces—this helps maintain a crispy texture that stands out in the casserole.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook gently until they become soft and fragrant. Then stir in minced garlic and chopped broccoli, seasoning with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the veggies cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli starts to soften but still holds some crunch.
Step 3: Simmer Sauce
Pour 36 ounces of pasta sauce into the pot with the sautéed vegetables, reserving the remaining 12 ounces for later. Allow this mixture to simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, giving the flavors time to marry and the broccoli to tenderize slightly. Then turn off the heat to prepare for the next step.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add your cooked rigatoni into the sauce and vegetable pot, stirring carefully so every noodle is coated with sauce and veggies. Next, fold in one cup of shredded mozzarella along with all the parmesan cheese, letting the warmth gently meld the cheeses with the pasta mixture.
Step 5: Assemble Casserole Layers
In a 9×13 inch casserole dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly. Layer half of the cooked chicken chunks on top, then drizzle half of the reserved pasta sauce and sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta, chicken, sauce, and cheese to build two glorious, cheesy layers.
Step 6: Prepare Topping
Mix panko bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, melted butter, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with the buttery seasoning—that way, they bake up golden, crunchy, and full of flavor.
Step 7: Top and Bake
Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly across the top of your casserole layers. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole bubbles and the topping turns a beautiful golden brown that you and your guests will find irresistible.
Step 8: Broil and Garnish
For that final touch, broil the casserole for a few minutes to crisp and brown the topping even more. Keep a close eye during this step to avoid burning. Remove from the oven and adorn with fresh basil strands for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness right before serving.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil isn’t just pretty on this casserole, it adds a fragrant, slightly sweet herbal note that lifts the whole dish. A couple of torn basil leaves or a few small sprigs scattered on top right after baking will really elevate presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a hearty meal on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or garlic-roasted asparagus. These fresh veggies balance the richness of the casserole without competing with its bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve the casserole in individual ramekins instead of one big dish, creating charming single servings complete with bubbly, golden crusts. Or try layering the casserole in clear glass dishes so the colorful layers show through—it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe has cooled, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and tasty for 3 to 4 days, perfect for an easy reheated meal later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to save some for later. Assemble the casserole completely but don’t bake it—cover well with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through and bubbly, preserving that wonderful topped crispness. If you’re in a rush, microwave reheating works too, but the topping will lose some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of chicken nuggets?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders work great. Cook them through, dice or shred, and add as directed. The nuggets add convenience and texture, but fresh chicken is a delicious alternative.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free rigatoni and panko bread crumbs, and check that your pasta sauce and seasonings are gluten-free. This lets you enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavors without worry.
Can I substitute broccoli with other vegetables?
Yes! Vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms are wonderful alternatives that complement the Parmesan and mozzarella perfectly. Just adjust cooking times so veggies are tender but not mushy.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional and provide that classic melty and nutty combo. Feel free to add provolone or fontina for different textures and flavors, but keep the balance to avoid overpowering the dish.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild and comforting with fragrant herbs and pepper’s gentle warmth. To add a little kick, sprinkle some red chili flakes in the sauce or topping according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe is nothing short of a delicious hug in food form. Its balance of crispy chicken, tender pasta, vibrant veggies, and melty cheese will quickly have a spot in your regular cooking rotation. I encourage you to make this dish soon—it will bring warmth, smiles, and satisfied appetites to your table with every inviting spoonful.
Print
Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Baked Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender rigatoni pasta, juicy chicken nuggets, vibrant broccoli, and a rich blend of tomato sauce and cheeses. Layers of seasoned chicken and pasta are topped with a flavorful, buttery breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole combines familiar flavors in a convenient, crowd-pleasing format.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 6 cups chicken nuggets or cut chicken tenders (Bare brand recommended)
Vegetable and Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups chopped broccoli
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 48 oz pasta sauce
Cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh basil strands, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Cook the chicken nuggets as per package directions, then cut into bite-sized chunks. Cooking the nuggets beforehand improves texture.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook for a few minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and chopped broccoli, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli begins to soften.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour 36 oz of pasta sauce into the pot with vegetables, reserving 12 oz of sauce for later layering. Allow the mixture to simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until broccoli is tender. Then turn off the heat.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and vegetable mixture, stirring until the noodles are evenly coated. Then mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and all of the parmesan cheese, stirring thoroughly to combine.
- Assemble Casserole Layers: Pour half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Evenly distribute half of the cooked chicken chunks over the pasta. Add half of the reserved sauce and mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining pasta, chicken, and mozzarella cheese to create two layers.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, melted butter, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Top and Bake: Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Broil and Garnish: For a crispy finish, broil the casserole for the last few minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil strands before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken nuggets with cut chicken tenders or cooked shredded chicken for a healthier option.
- Broccoli can be replaced with other vegetables such as spinach or zucchini depending on preference.
- Use a high-quality pasta sauce for best flavor or make your own marinara sauce.
- To keep the topping crispy, avoid covering the casserole immediately after baking.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
