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- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast - 1 cup whole wheat pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli) - 2 cups low-sugar marinara sauce - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped - 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional) The key to a great high protein chicken Parmesan casserole is in the ingredients. Each part plays a role in flavor and nutrition. First, I use cooked and shredded chicken breast. This is my protein star. It gives the dish a hearty base. Next, I add whole wheat pasta. It adds a nutty taste and boosts fiber. This helps keep you full longer. Then comes the low-sugar marinara sauce. It adds moisture and tang without too much sugar. For creaminess, I mix in ricotta cheese. It makes the dish rich and delicious. I top it with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. These cheeses melt beautifully and create a golden crust. Fresh spinach gives the casserole a pop of color and nutrients. I season the mix with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. These spices bring warmth and depth to the flavor. Finally, I finish with salt and black pepper. These simple ingredients tie everything together. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fresh touch. This adds aroma and color. For the full recipe, refer to the detailed instructions on preparing this delightful dish! 1. Preheat the oven and cook pasta: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly. Next, boil salted water in a large pot. Add 1 cup of whole wheat pasta to the pot and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. 2. Mix ingredients in a bowl: In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken breast, 2 cups of low-sugar marinara sauce, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, and 2 cups of finely chopped spinach. Add 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and some salt and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients blend together. 3. Transfer mixture to casserole dish: Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish. Pour the mixed ingredients into the dish. Spread it out evenly across the bottom. 1. Cover with foil and bake: Take aluminum foil and cover the dish tightly. This keeps the moisture in. Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. 2. Uncover and finish baking: Carefully remove the foil after 25 minutes. Let it bake for another 10-15 minutes. Watch for that beautiful golden brown cheese on top. 1. Allow to cool slightly before serving: Once baked, take the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier. 2. Garnish with basil if desired: For a nice touch, add fresh basil leaves on top of each serving. It adds color and flavor to your dish. Enjoy the high protein chicken Parmesan casserole! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. To make your chicken parmesan casserole shine, start by cooking the pasta al dente. This means the pasta should be firm when you bite into it. It helps the pasta hold its shape in the casserole. Next, add some flavor enhancements. You can use extra spices like red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like parsley for freshness. These small changes can make a big difference. For a cheese twist, try mixing in different cheese types. Use provolone for a sharper taste or goat cheese for creaminess. Each option can change the flavor and texture of your casserole. Choosing the right baking dish is key. I recommend a 9x13 inch glass or ceramic dish. It helps the casserole cook evenly and look great. For mixing, use a large bowl and a spatula. This makes it easy to combine all your ingredients without making a mess. A wooden spoon also works well if you prefer that. When serving, you can scoop the casserole directly from the dish. This keeps things simple and easy. To enhance the visual appeal, try adding a fresh basil leaf on top of each serving. The green color contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and sauce. It also adds a pop of flavor that makes each bite even better. For the full recipe, check the complete details above. {{image_4}} You can easily swap ingredients in this casserole. If you want a different protein, try turkey or tofu. Both options give you a nice taste and keep the protein high. For pasta, look for gluten-free types. These work well and help those who can't eat gluten. If you need dairy-free options, use almond or cashew cheese. This change still keeps the dish creamy and tasty. Adding veggies can change the flavor. Bell peppers and mushrooms are great choices. They add color and nutrients. You can also try different sauces. For a kick, use arrabbiata sauce instead of marinara. Or, go for pesto for a fresh twist. These small changes can make your casserole feel new each time you cook it. If you want to serve fewer people, cut the recipe in half. Use a smaller dish to bake. You might need to reduce cooking time a bit. If you have a crowd, double the ingredients. Use a bigger dish and check for doneness. This way, you can enjoy the casserole no matter the size of your gathering. To keep your high protein chicken Parmesan casserole fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration: Let the casserole cool down to room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can stay in the fridge for about 3-4 days. - Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole. Use a freezer-safe dish and cover it well. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When it's time to enjoy your casserole again, here are the best ways to reheat it: - Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes. - Microwave Method: If you're in a hurry, use the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. This helps it heat evenly. The shelf life varies based on storage: - In the fridge: Your casserole lasts about 3-4 days. - In the freezer: It can stay good for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date! A high protein chicken Parmesan casserole is a hearty dish. It combines shredded chicken, whole wheat pasta, and rich marinara sauce. This dish includes three types of cheese: ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The flavors blend well, creating a warm and satisfying meal. You get protein from chicken and cheese, making it a filling option. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Cover the dish tightly with foil. You can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This casserole pairs well with many side dishes. A fresh garden salad adds crunch and color. Roasted vegetables bring extra flavor and nutrition. Garlic bread is a classic choice for soaking up sauce. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch. Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. You can portion it into individual servings after baking. Use airtight containers to keep the casserole fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze portions for later use. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to eat. This chicken Parmesan casserole brings together simple, wholesome ingredients for a delicious meal. We reviewed each ingredient, preparation steps, and tips to enhance flavor and presentation. Don't forget the fun of personalizing your dish with variations! Storing and reheating it properly ensures every bite tastes fresh. I hope you feel inspired to make this recipe a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy every scoop and share it with friends and family.

- High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Savor the deliciousness of this High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole! Packed with shredded chicken, whole wheat pasta, and plenty of cheesy goodness, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, it combines rich flavors with healthy ingredients like fresh spinach and low-sugar marinara. Click to explore the full recipe and elevate your weeknight meals!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast

1 cup whole wheat pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)

2 cups low-sugar marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (or to taste)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it's fully heated before placing the casserole inside.

    In a large pot filled with salted water, cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package’s instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, finely chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

        Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, using a spatula to spread it out evenly across the base.

          Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole, ensuring even coverage for a melted, cheesy finish.

            Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil, carefully sealing it to retain moisture. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.

              After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the casserole until the cheese is bubbly and turns a beautiful golden brown.

                Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly before serving. For an elegant touch, garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves if desired.

                  - Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole directly from the dish or scoop portions onto plates. A fresh basil leaf on top of each serving adds a lovely pop of color and flavor!