High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole for Family Dinner (Print Version)
Enjoy a hearty High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole, a family-friendly dinner packed with flavor. This easy baked dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian-American
# Ingredients:
→ The Protein Powerhouse
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
→ The Savory Tomato Foundation
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 (24 oz) can crushed tomatoes
06 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
07 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
08 -
1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
09 -
1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
→ The Golden Cheesy Crown
10 -
2 cups (8 oz) low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
11 -
1/2 cup (2 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
12 -
1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
→ The Crispy Finish & Freshness
13 -
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
14 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Cut 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This initial prep sets the stage for your delicious High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Dinner.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
Pour in 1 (24 oz) can crushed tomatoes. Add 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld for your High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Dinner.
04 -
Add the 1 1/2 lbs cubed chicken breasts directly to the simmering tomato sauce in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is mostly cooked through. Remove the skillet from the heat.
05 -
Spread half of the chicken and sauce mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Dollop 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese over the sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup (4 oz) low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup (1 oz) grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers with the remaining chicken/sauce and cheeses.
06 -
Evenly sprinkle 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious crispy finish for your High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Dinner, adding a delightful texture contrast.
07 -
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the Panko topping is golden brown. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set, making for easier and cleaner serving.
08 -
Garnish the baked casserole with 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped. Serve hot and enjoy your satisfying and flavorful High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Dinner.
# Notes:
01 -
For an even richer flavor, you can quickly sear the chicken cubes in a separate pan before adding them to the sauce.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
03 -
Feel free to swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly juicier texture. You can also use whole wheat Panko for added fiber.
04 -
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to complete your family dinner.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 385 kcal
Total Fat: 16 g
Total Carbohydrate: 11 g
Protein: 46 g