Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

Welcome to our detailed guide on making the delicious Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole! This delightful dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with the comforting texture of a casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

What is Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a savory dish that combines tender chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection in a casserole dish. This recipe takes the beloved chicken parmesan and transforms it into a hearty, easy-to-make casserole that is perfect for any occasion.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jiffy Corn Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Beef Stew
• Pioneer Woman Beef Burgundy

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Flavorful and Comforting: Combines the rich flavors of chicken parmesan with the coziness of a casserole.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both adults and kids, making it a perfect family meal.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, ideal for meal prepping.
• Versatile: Can be paired with various sides to create a complete meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Perfect for entertaining guests with a delicious and visually appealing dish.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken until browned.
4. In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce.
5. Place cooked chicken over the sauce.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly on top.
8. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs with minced garlic and olive oil.
9. Spread the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Side Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp and refreshing, complements the richness of the casserole.
• Garden Salad: Light and fresh, balances the hearty casserole.

Pasta

• Spaghetti: Classic choice, pairs well with the marinara sauce.
• Garlic Butter Noodles: Simple yet flavorful, enhances the overall meal.

Vegetables

• Roasted Broccoli: Adds a healthy and crunchy element.
• Steamed Green Beans: Light and nutritious, a perfect side.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Choose High-Quality Ingredients

• Use fresh, high-quality chicken and cheese for the best flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

• Avoid drying out the chicken by cooking it just until browned.

Layering is Key

• Properly layer the ingredients for an even distribution of flavors.

Use Fresh Herbs

• Fresh basil or parsley can enhance the flavor and presentation.

Adjust Seasoning

• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before baking.

Let it Rest

• Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to set the layers.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with eggplant or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Extra Cheesy: Add more mozzarella or a mix of different cheeses.

Storing Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole: Best Practices

Refrigerate Properly

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze for Later

• Wrap portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months.

Use Appropriate Containers

• Opt for freezer-safe containers to maintain freshness.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole: Best Practices

Oven Method

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Microwave Option

• Heat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.

Avoid Drying Out

• Cover the casserole with foil when reheating to retain moisture.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

FAQs

How can I make Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole gluten-free?

To make Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole gluten-free, substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as marinara sauce, are also gluten-free. Follow the same preparation steps, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this casserole.

What is the best way to reheat Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

The best way to reheat Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole, covered with foil, for 20-25 minutes until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.

Can I make Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as instructed, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Can I use a different type of cheese in Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese in Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole. While mozzarella and parmesan are traditional choices, you can experiment with cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses to add a unique flavor to your casserole.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the best of chicken parmesan in an easy-to-make casserole form. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations and tips provided to make it your own!

Other Yummy Recipes:

• Pioneer Woman Chow Chow
• Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Lasagna
• Pioneer Woman Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole

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