Chicken Parmesan Casserole

The aroma of melted cheese and savory marinara wafts through the air as you serve up a warm dish of Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This comforting casserole takes about 30 minutes to prepare and bake, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite with a twist. The creamy texture combined with tender chicken makes it a satisfying meal for any night of the week.

This recipe is perfect for busy families looking for a quick, hearty dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight meals or potluck gatherings. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy blend of cheeses creates a rich, delightful topping.
• It’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Using cauliflower rice offers a low-carb alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• A quick bake under the broiler results in perfectly melted cheese with a golden crust.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your Chicken Parmesan Casserole.

For the Casserole

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 1/2 cup marinara sauce, Rao’s is great
• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 1 + cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (not pre-shredded)
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

For Garnish

• Fresh basil, shredded
• More parmesan cheese

Tip: Fresh mozzarella provides a creamier texture.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use cooked turkey instead of chicken.
• Swap marinara with homemade tomato sauce.
• Cauliflower rice can be replaced with regular rice.
• Cream cheese may be substituted with Greek yogurt.

How to Make It

Start your cooking journey with these simple steps.

Heat the Oil

1. Add olive oil: Add the olive oil to a cast iron skillet and heat it over medium heat.

Sauté the Cauliflower Rice

2. Cook cauliflower rice: Add cauliflower rice to the pan and sauté until it’s cooked through.

Incorporate the Cream Cheese Mixture

3. Mix in cream cheese and seasonings: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the cream cheese, garlic salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, stirring until melted.

Combine Ingredients

4. Stir in the chicken and marinara: Add the marinara sauce and cooked chicken, simmering until the casserole is heated through.

Finish with Cheese

5. Top with mozzarella and parmesan: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top. Broil for 1-2 minutes to melt and lightly brown the cheese.

Garnish

6. Add final touches: Garnish with fresh shredded basil and more parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the texture may change.
Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly shredded cheese for optimal melting.
• Ensure the cauliflower rice is well-cooked to avoid excess moisture.
• Broil your casserole for a few seconds longer for added browning.
• Experiment with different marinara sauces for varying flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with garlic bread for a traditional Italian feast.
• Great for family gatherings or cozy evening dinners.