Skinny Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of chicken parmesan but want to enjoy it in a healthier way, this Skinny Chicken Parmesan Casserole is perfect for you. It combines the deliciousness of a traditional Italian dish with whole grain pasta, lean chicken breast, and reduced-fat mozzarella. With just the right amount of cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a comfort food that won’t derail your healthy eating goals. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound penne pasta (whole grain)

• 1 jar marinara sauce (24-25 ounce jar, no sugar added)

• 15 ounces diced tomatoes (optional)

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

• 1 cup skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)

• ½ cup Panko bread crumbs (whole wheat)

• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, or ground oregano)

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to the package directions and drain.

2. Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a 9x13-inch casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), and chicken. Stir to combine.

3. Cover the dish and bake for 30 minutes.

4. While the casserole is baking, mix the Panko bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning together in a small bowl.

5. After 30 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.

6. Return the casserole to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the top is crispy and golden brown.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and follow the recipe as directed for a vegetarian dish.

• Cheesier Option: For an extra cheesy casserole, mix in ¼ cup of ricotta and ¼ cup of cottage cheese along with the mozzarella.

• Tomato-Free: If you prefer less tomato flavor, you can omit the diced tomatoes. The casserole will still be flavorful with the marinara sauce alone.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pasta instead of whole grain penne?

Yes, you can substitute regular pasta if you prefer, but whole grain pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients.

2. Is it necessary to use diced tomatoes?

Diced tomatoes are optional. You can add them for extra tomato flavor or skip them if you prefer a more straightforward marinara taste.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When ready to cook, just bake it as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chill.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake it from frozen for about 60 minutes at 375°F. If freezing after baking, reheat at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with a low-fat cheddar, provolone, or any cheese that melts well.

6. How can I make the casserole more flavorful?

Add some extra herbs like fresh basil, parsley, or thyme, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat.

7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F to ensure it is safely cooked.

8. Can I skip the bread crumbs?

Yes, if you want to skip the bread crumbs, you can top the casserole with more cheese or leave it off for a lighter version.

9. Can I use a different type of meat?

You can substitute the chicken with turkey or lean ground meat for a variation.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make the casserole gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Skinny Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent. With whole grain pasta, lean chicken, and a delicious blend of cheeses, you get all the flavors of a classic chicken parmesan without the extra calories. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish will surely satisfy your craving for comfort food while keeping you on track with your health goals.

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Skinny Chicken Parmesan Casserole

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This healthy chicken parmesan casserole offers a lighter twist on a beloved Italian classic. Packed with the rich flavors of marinara sauce, mozzarella, and chicken, this casserole is a satisfying and nutritious meal the whole family will enjoy.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

1 pound penne pasta (whole grain)

1 jar marinara sauce (24-25 ounce jar, no sugar added)

15 ounces diced tomatoes (optional)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

1 cup skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)

½ cup Panko bread crumbs (whole wheat)

¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, or ground oregano)

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to the package directions and drain.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a 9x13-inch casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), and chicken. Stir to combine.
3. Cover the dish and bake for 30 minutes.
4. While the casserole is baking, mix the Panko bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning together in a small bowl.
5. After 30 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
6. Return the casserole to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the top is crispy and golden brown.

Notes

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and follow the recipe as directed for a vegetarian dish.
• Cheesier Option: For an extra cheesy casserole, mix in ¼ cup of ricotta and ¼ cup of cottage cheese along with the mozzarella.
• Tomato-Free: If you prefer less tomato flavor, you can omit the diced tomatoes. The casserole will still be flavorful with the marinara sauce alone.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 60mg