Description
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a simple, hearty, and cheesy one-pan dish that combines tender chicken breast, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses baked to golden perfection. It offers an effortless and comforting Italian-inspired dinner perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
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
Cheese & Topping
- 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 promote even cooking.
- Mix Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish or a separate large bowl, combine uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, black pepper, and diced raw chicken breast. For enhanced flavor, optional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or crushed red pepper flakes can be added.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: If you mixed ingredients separately, pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the pasta to cook properly. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Breadcrumbs: After baking covered for 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole. The pasta may still be firm, and some liquid will remain, which is normal. Evenly top the casserole with shredded mozzarella (or cheese blend), Panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake Again: Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese melts, becomes golden and bubbly, the breadcrumbs brown, and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs such as basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then serve hot and enjoy your hearty chicken parmesan casserole.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary depending on the type of baking dish used; glass or ceramic pans may require longer baking times compared to metal pans.
- Check pasta doneness by tasting a piece; it should be al dente with most of the liquid absorbed to avoid a mushy texture.
- To boost flavors, consider adding Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or even sun-dried tomatoes before baking.
