Cheesy High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole
A hearty dish perfect for meal prep, combining chicken, pasta, and a rich blend of cheeses topped with marinara sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience.
- 1 cup Cooked pasta (penne or rotini) Any short pasta works well.
- 2 cups Marinara sauce Choose your favorite brand for best flavor.
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese Makes for a creamy texture.
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Fresh mozzarella can be used, but will change melting properties.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Pairs well with the flavors of chicken and tomato.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Fresh herbs can be substituted.
- To taste Salt and pepper Adjust based on preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your high-protein meal!
Notes
Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor and texture. Don’t overcook your pasta; it should be slightly firm since it will bake further. Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving to improve slicing. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. If you're looking to reduce fat, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella. Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.