Dive into Deliciousness
Ever thought about how deliciously comforting a casserole can be? Picture this: creamy layers of ricotta, tangy marinara, and perfectly tender chicken, all bubbling together in a cheesy delight. The High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole isn’t just any dinner; it’s a one-pan wonder that’s quick to whip up and even quicker to disappear from the table!
Why Make This Recipe?
What’s not to love about this gem of a dish?
- Easy cleanup: Seriously, it’s a casserole, people! Just one pan to worry about.
- Family-friendly: Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hungry teens, this cheesy delight is bound to win hearts (and stomachs).
- Packed with protein: You get all the goodness of chicken with a cheesy finish that feels like a warm hug.
Who doesn’t want a hero dish that saves the day in the dinner department? 💪
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
Directions
Get ready to create magic in the kitchen with these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything gets cozy together.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Evenly distribute the whole wheat breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
How to Make High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole (Overview)
Making this cheesy casserole is a breeze! Start by mixing the shredded chicken with the marinara sauce and cheeses; this step is your flavor base. Then, layer it all together like a friendship: if something seems off, adjust it! Pro tip: Don’t skip the seasoning—those herbs bring out the dish’s fabulous flavors. The final touch? A crunchy breadcrumb topping that adds texture and really makes the dish pop!
How to Serve High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Bring this beauty to the table and watch everyone’s eyes light up! The golden top contrasts beautifully with the rich colors of marinara and chicken underneath.
- Serve it as is or pair it with a refreshing green salad for a nice crunch.
- A side of garlicky bread would be a delightful choice too—because who doesn’t want more carbs, right? 😄
Each forkful smells of Italy and feels warm and cheesy in your mouth.
How to Store High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole
This casserole makes for excellent leftovers!
- In the fridge: Enjoy it for up to 3-4 days, tightly covered.
- In the freezer: If you want to stash it away, it keeps well for about 2-3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing!
When you’re ready to dig in, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until bubbly again.
Tips to Make High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Cook the chicken ahead of time: It speeds up the process when you’re ready to assemble!
Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Nobody says you can’t cut corners (the tasty kind, of course).
Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for an extra crunch and nutrition boost.
Watch the breadcrumbs: If you prefer a softer topping, mix some of the breadcrumbs with your ricotta mixture instead of just layering on top.
Let it cool slightly before serving: It’ll slice neater and keep those delicious layers intact.
Variation
Want to spice things up? Consider these fun options:
- Switch it up: Use zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a low-carb version.
- Make it vegan: Substitute chickpeas for chicken and use dairy-free ricotta and cheese.
The possibilities are endless (but delicious)! 😉
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead?
Absolutely! Just cook it first — sauté or bake it until fully cooked before shredding.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
For sure! Assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
3. What if I don’t have bread crumbs?
You can crush some crackers or even use oats! You’ll still get that satisfying crunch.
So, are you ready to impress your family with this high-protein comfort food? Enjoy every cheesy bite! 📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything gets cozy together.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Evenly distribute the whole wheat breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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