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Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Mozzarella & Panko

Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Mozzarella & Panko
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This Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Mozzarella & Panko combines tender chicken breasts, rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a crispy panko-Parmesan topping baked to golden perfection. It offers all the classic flavors of chicken parmesan but in an effortless, one-dish casserole perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or casual weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded fresh mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Either cook them lightly in a skillet or bake until just done, ensuring they stay tender for the casserole.
  2. Assemble the casserole layers: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Place the cooked chicken breasts on top, spoon marinara sauce generously over them, then cover with a thick layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
  3. Make the crunchy topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and drizzle in olive oil. Toast this mixture briefly in a skillet until golden brown and fragrant. Sprinkle evenly over the mozzarella layer to create a crispy crust.
  4. Bake until bubbly: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the panko topping is crisp and golden brown.
  5. Let it rest before serving: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes to set, making it easier to cut and allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Use fresh mozzarella for creamier melting and better texture.
  • Toasting the panko topping is essential to avoid sogginess after baking.
  • Pound chicken breasts to even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Using homemade or high-quality marinara sauce improves flavor depth.
  • Cover casserole with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking to retain moisture, then uncover to crisp the topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Casserole, Mozzarella, Panko, Italian, Baked Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Meal

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/chicken-parmesan-casserole-with-mozzarella-panko/