Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an easy, flavorful one-dish meal combining uncooked penne pasta, tender diced chicken breast, marinara sauce, and a cheesy breadcrumb topping. The recipe requires minimal prep and cooks entirely in the oven, making it a perfect hassle-free dinner option that delivers classic Italian-inspired comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 (16 oz) package uncooked penne pasta
3 cups marinara sauce (about 1 24-ounce jar)
3 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 ½ lbs. raw chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

Toppings

1–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or Italian cheese blend)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

Optional Garnish

Fresh chopped herbs (such as basil or parsley)

Instructions

Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Mix Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish or a separate large bowl, combine the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, ground black pepper, and diced raw chicken breast. For enhanced flavor, add optional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Transfer to Baking Dish & Cover: If mixed outside, pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture, which helps properly cook the pasta and chicken.
First Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the pasta to begin cooking and the chicken to start cooking through.
Add Cheese & Breadcrumbs: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole. The pasta will be slightly firm with some liquid remaining, which is normal. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella (or Italian cheese blend), grated Parmesan cheese, and panko breadcrumbs on top.
Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes. This step melts and browns the cheese topping until golden and bubbly and fully cooks the chicken and pasta.
Serve: Remove from oven, optionally garnish with fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness, and serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

Cooking times may vary depending on the type of baking dish used; glass or ceramic dishes may require more time than metal pans.
To check doneness, taste the pasta to ensure it is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy pasta and dry chicken.
Customize the flavor by adding Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or sundried tomatoes to the base mixture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: chicken parmesan casserole, baked pasta casserole, easy dinner, cheesy chicken bake, one dish meal, penne pasta casserole