High Protein Chicken Parm Casserole | Family Dinner (Print Version)
High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an easy, family-friendly dinner. Enjoy classic flavors with a healthy twist, perfect for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Lean Protein Core
01 -
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
2 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1/2 tsp salt
04 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Rich Tomato Embrace
05 -
24 oz marinara sauce
06 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 tsp dried oregano
08 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
→ Golden Parmesan Crust
09 -
1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
10 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 -
1 large egg
12 -
1 tsp dried parsley
→ Melted Cheesy Blanket
13 -
2 cups part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
14 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Slice 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts horizontally to create 12 thinner cutlets. Pat dry, then season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. This prepares the lean protein core for your High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Meal.
02 -
In a shallow dish, whisk 1 large egg. In another shallow dish, combine 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tsp dried parsley. This forms the flavorful golden crust for your chicken.
03 -
Dip each seasoned chicken cutlet first into the whisked 1 large egg, ensuring full coverage. Then, dredge thoroughly in the Panko breadcrumbs mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breading. Place coated cutlets on a plate, ready for assembly.
04 -
In a medium bowl, combine 24 oz marinara sauce, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tsp dried oregano. Stir in 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil. This rich tomato embrace will infuse your High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Meal with classic flavor.
05 -
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread about 1 cup of the prepared marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange the coated chicken cutlets over the sauce. Top chicken with half of the remaining marinara sauce.
06 -
Sprinkle 2 cups part-skim mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauced chicken. Finish with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This melted cheesy blanket will create a delicious golden crust for your High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole | Family Meal.
07 -
Bake for 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F) and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra tender chicken and even cooking, pound the chicken cutlets to a uniform 1/2-inch thickness before seasoning and breading.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
03 -
To make this gluten-free, substitute the Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara for a subtle kick.
04 -
Serve this hearty casserole with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed broccoli for a complete and balanced family meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
large mixing bowls
03 -
whisk
04 -
measuring cups and spoons
05 -
cutting board
06 -
chef's knife
07 -
meat thermometer
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 559 kcal
Total Fat: 22 g
Total Carbohydrate: 18 g
Protein: 66 g