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Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 76 reviews
  • Author: Ella
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an easy, comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, and tender bite-sized chicken breasts, everything is baked together in one dish, allowing the pasta to soak up all the flavorful sauce. Finished with melted mozzarella, crunchy panko, and Parmesan cheese, this casserole offers all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan with minimal prep and mess.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Sauce

  • 1 (16 oz) package uncooked penne pasta
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (about 1 jar, 24 oz)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Ground black pepper, to taste

Protein

  • 1½ lbs raw chicken breast, cut 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 like basil or parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish or a large bowl, mix together the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, ground black pepper, and the bite-sized raw chicken pieces until combined.
  3. First Bake – Covered: Transfer the mixture fully into the prepared baking dish if mixed in a bowl. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture, then bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step allows the pasta to soften and absorb the flavors while the chicken begins cooking.
  4. Stir and Check: Carefully remove the foil after 30 minutes and stir the casserole to evenly distribute ingredients. The pasta should still be slightly firm, and some liquid may remain, which is expected.
  5. Add Toppings: Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella over the casserole, then sprinkle with Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy, cheesy topping.
  6. Second Bake – Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the top is golden brown, the pasta is tender, and the chicken is fully cooked through.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy your hearty Chicken Parmesan casserole.

Notes

  • You can use any marinara sauce of your choice or homemade sauce for added flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of shredded mozzarella based on your preference for cheesiness.
  • For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce before baking.
  • Ensure chicken pieces are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking within the bake time.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta and Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free varieties.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan casserole, easy chicken dinner, baked pasta casserole, one-pan meal, comfort food, weeknight dinner

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Find it online: https://delishwithella.com/dump-and-bake-chicken-parmesan-casserole-recipe/