Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a simple, hearty one-dish meal combining tender chicken, uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses baked to golden perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, it requires minimal prep and delivers comforting Italian flavors with a crispy, cheesy topping.

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

Cheese and 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 ensure easy cleanup.
Mix Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish or a large bowl, combine the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, ground black pepper, and diced chicken breast. For enhanced flavor, optionally add seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Transfer to Baking Dish & Cover: If you mixed in a bowl, pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in, which allows the pasta to cook properly. Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Add Cheese & Breadcrumbs: Remove the foil after 30 minutes and stir the casserole gently. The pasta will still be slightly firm and there may be some liquid remaining—this is expected. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and Panko breadcrumbs over the top.
Bake Again Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, the breadcrumbs are golden and crisp, and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

Cooking time can vary depending on your pan material and oven; metal pans heat faster than glass or ceramic.
Check pasta for doneness by tasting; it should be al dente with most liquid absorbed.
Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy pasta.
Enhance flavors by adding Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce mixture.

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

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Casserole, One-Dish Meal, Baked Pasta, Easy Dinner, Italian Comfort Food