High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole Delight

High Protein Chicken Parmesan is a comforting dish that brings the best of Italian flavors right to your table. This delightful casserole is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or a quick family dinner. With a blend of tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses, this recipe promises a satisfying experience that’s perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt.

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Chicken Parmesan

This high protein chicken parmesan recipe is not just tasty; it comes with numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, it is rich in protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, making it perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Second, it offers a healthy alternative to traditional chicken parmesan, reducing carbs without sacrificing flavor, which aligns with your weight loss goals.

Additionally, the use of whole wheat breadcrumbs provides fiber, aiding digestion. The combination of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses adds creaminess, while the marinara sauce contributes vital nutrients. This dish is also versatile, allowing for various substitutions, such as tofu for a vegetarian option, catering to different dietary needs. Finally, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal.

Ingredients for High Protein Chicken Parmesan

Gather these items:

• 3 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken (Substitution: Use tofu or chickpeas for a vegan option.)
• 2 cups Marinara Sauce (Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade version.)
• 1 cup Ricotta Cheese (Substitution: Cottage cheese or dairy-free alternatives can be used.)
• 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Fresh mozzarella can be a richer substitute for added flavor.)
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (For a stronger flavor, use aged Parmesan.)
• 1 tablespoon Dried Basil (Fresh herbs can be used for a vibrant flavor.)
• 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano (Fresh herbs can be used for a vibrant flavor.)
• 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust according to taste preference.)
• 1 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust according to taste preference.)
• 1 cup Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs (Substitution: Gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.)

How to Make High Protein Chicken Parmesan Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until well incorporated.
3. Step 3: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread half of the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken mixture.
5. Step 5: Add the remaining chicken mixture on top and spread it out evenly. Top it with the rest of the cheeses.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle whole wheat breadcrumbs evenly over the top of your casserole.
7. Step 7: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
8. Step 8: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect High Protein Chicken Parmesan

Keep these in mind:

• This dish is great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Feel free to customize the ingredients to your taste; adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For added richness, consider using a mix of cheeses, such as adding provolone.
• Make sure to let the casserole cool slightly before serving to help it set.

Best Ways to Serve High Protein Chicken Parmesan

This dish can be served in various delightful ways. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Another great option is to serve it over a bed of whole grain pasta for an Italian twist. For a low-carb option, try zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, enhancing its status as a low-carb high protein chicken parmesan.

How to Store and Reheat High Protein Chicken Parmesan

To store, keep the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, simply scoop out a portion and microwave it until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, ensuring it remains delicious and fresh. This makes it a fantastic choice for high protein chicken parmesan meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About High Protein Chicken Parmesan

What’s the secret to perfect High Protein Chicken Parmesan?

To achieve the best results, ensure your chicken is well-seasoned and thoroughly mixed with the marinara and cheeses. Using fresh herbs can also elevate the flavor profile significantly. Additionally, baking it until the cheese is bubbling creates that perfect golden crust.

Can I make High Protein Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to save time during busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with High Protein Chicken Parmesan?

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness. Also, avoid using too much sauce, as it can make the dish soggy. Finally, ensure even layering of ingredients for balanced flavor in every bite.

Variations of High Protein Chicken Parmesan You Can Try

There are many delicious variations of this dish. For a high protein baked chicken parmesan, try baking it without breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. You can also experiment with different proteins, like turkey or lean beef, for a twist on the classic recipe. For a vegetarian alternative, substitute chicken with chickpeas or lentils, creating a protein-rich chicken parmesan that everyone will love.

For more information on the benefits of high-protein diets, check out this Healthline article. If you’re interested in exploring more Italian recipes, visit our recipe category for a variety of options. You might also enjoy learning about homemade tomato sauce to complement your dishes.

High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole Delight

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High Protein Chicken Parmesan Casserole, a satisfying dish packed with protein and perfect for meal prep.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: High Protein

Ingredients

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• 3 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken (Substitution: Use tofu or chickpeas for a vegan option.)
• 2 cups Marinara Sauce (Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade version.)
• 1 cup Ricotta Cheese (Substitution: Cottage cheese or dairy-free alternatives can be used.)
• 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Fresh mozzarella can be a richer substitute for added flavor.)
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (For a stronger flavor, use aged Parmesan.)
• 1 tablespoon Dried Basil (Fresh herbs can be used for a vibrant flavor.)
• 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano (Fresh herbs can be used for a vibrant flavor.)
• 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust according to taste preference.)
• 1 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust according to taste preference.)
• 1 cup Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs (Substitution: Gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until well incorporated.
3. Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread half of the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken mixture.
5. Add the remaining chicken mixture on top and spread it out evenly. Top it with the rest of the cheeses.
6. Sprinkle whole wheat breadcrumbs evenly over the top of your casserole.
7. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
8. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• This dish is great for meal prep.
• Feel free to customize the ingredients to your taste.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg