Description

A hands-off, high-protein chicken parmesan casserole that combines bubbling cheese and tangy tomato sauce for a comforting yet healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 ½ cups marinara sauce (no-sugar-added or homemade)
1 ½ cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon salt)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown but not cooked through.
In a small bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Place seared chicken breasts in the casserole dish in a single layer. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese over the top. Drizzle the whisked eggs evenly across the dish. Finish with the remaining mozzarella.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not skip searing the chicken to lock in flavor and moisture. Let chicken come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Whisk eggs well to create a custardy texture. Avoid overbaking to prevent dry chicken. Fresh herbs add brightness. Can add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients. Variations include spicy kick, cheese swaps, gluten-free sides, or dairy-free options.

Prep Time: 17 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
Calories: 350
Fat: 12
Carbohydrates: 10
Fiber: 2
Protein: 42

Keywords: chicken parmesan, casserole, high protein dinner, healthy chicken recipe, easy weeknight meal, baked chicken, comfort food