Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken in Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Spread the love

Introducing the ultimate comfort food dish – Garlic Parmesan Chicken in Casserole! This irresistible recipe combines tender chicken, a creamy garlic-infused sauce, and a crispy parmesan topping for a heavenly flavor experience. Whether you’re craving a satisfying weeknight meal or looking to impress guests, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

✨ What Makes This Recipe Special

The secret to this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole’s exceptional taste lies in the combination of juicy chicken, a rich and savory garlic-infused sauce, and a golden, crispy parmesan topping. The contrast between the tender chicken, the creamy sauce, and the crunchy topping creates a truly memorable dining experience. Plus, the recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and a parmesan-infused topping creates a flavor profile that has made casserole recipes perennially popular.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: Transfer the chicken and sauce mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
Step 7: Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 8: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Timing Overview

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Compared to traditional chicken casseroles which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole saves you 25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 455
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 33g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 677mg

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casseroles provide approximately 68% of your daily protein requirements and 51% of your daily fat needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🍃 Healthy Swaps & Substitutions

• Reduced-fat option: Use low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese instead of heavy cream, and substitute part-skim mozzarella for the parmesan cheese.
• Lower-carb version: Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk, and use grated parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese instead of the breading.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Swap the heavy cream for unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative.
• Added protein: Mix in cooked and diced bacon, chopped spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Sauté diced bell peppers, onions, or broccoli florets and mix them into the casserole before baking.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
• Pair the casserole with garlic bread or a crusty bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.
• Complement the dish with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete meal.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s cooked through.
• Not letting the casserole rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the sauce thicken and the dish set properly.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casseroles retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the casserole according to the instructions, but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead option. You can prepare the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed in the recipe.

Can I substitute the chicken with a different protein?

Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for turkey, pork, or even shrimp. The garlic-parmesan sauce will complement a variety of proteins. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the new protein you choose.

Is this casserole keto-friendly?

Yes, with a few simple modifications, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole can be made keto-friendly. Use full-fat heavy cream or coconut milk instead of regular cream, and replace the parmesan cheese with a low-carb cheese like cheddar or mozzarella.

How do I prevent the top from getting too brown?

If you find the top of the casserole is browning too quickly, simply cover it loosely with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will prevent the cheese from burning while allowing the center to finish cooking.

Can I add any extra vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if you add a significant amount of extra ingredients.

🎉 Final Thoughts

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casseroles represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, they’re sure to impress with their creamy, cheesy, and irresistible appeal. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casseroles demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly and baking process.