High Protein Chicken Parm Casserole: Easy Family Dinner (Print Version)
High protein chicken parm casserole for a satisfying family dinner. Layers of tender chicken, marinara, and cheese baked to golden perfection.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Chicken Foundation
01 -
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
03 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Rich Tomato & Cheese Embrace
04 -
24 oz low-sugar marinara sauce
05 -
15 oz part-skim ricotta cheese
06 -
1 large egg
07 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 -
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
→ Golden Crispy Crown
09 -
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
10 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
→ Aromatic Enhancers
12 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
13 -
1 tsp dried oregano
14 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1/2-inch thick cutlets. Season with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil and cook chicken until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This sets the foundation for your High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Dinner.
02 -
In a medium bowl, combine 15 oz part-skim ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir in 4 cloves minced garlic and 1 tsp dried oregano until well combined. This creamy mixture adds a rich, savory layer to your High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Dinner.
03 -
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted. Stir thoroughly until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This golden crispy crown will provide a delightful texture contrast to your casserole.
04 -
Spread half of the 24 oz low-sugar marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the cooked chicken cutlets over the sauce. Dollop the ricotta mixture evenly over the chicken, then top with 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese.
05 -
Pour the remaining 24 oz low-sugar marinara sauce over the ricotta and mozzarella layers. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese. Evenly distribute the prepared panko breadcrumb topping over the entire casserole.
06 -
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crisp. For the best High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Dinner, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
07 -
Once rested, garnish the warm casserole generously with 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped. This aromatic finish enhances the flavors of your High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Dinner. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting family meal!
# Notes:
01 -
For extra flavor, you can pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking for uniform tenderness.
02 -
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
03 -
Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or ricotta mixture for a subtle spicy kick.
04 -
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad or a side of whole wheat pasta to complete your family dinner.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Mixing bowls
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Cutting board
07 -
Chef's knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 508 kcal
Total Fat: 23 g
Total Carbohydrate: 16 g
Protein: 54 g