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Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 108 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a simple, comforting one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, diced raw chicken, and a blend of cheeses, it’s baked until bubbly and golden. The easy preparation and minimal cleanup make it an ideal family-friendly dinner that’s full of classic Italian flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Sauce

  • 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

Chicken and Cheese

  • 1 ½ lbs. raw chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or Italian cheese blend)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Topping and Garnish

  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • Optional garnish: Fresh chopped herbs (such as basil or parsley)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish or a large bowl, combine the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and diced raw chicken breast. For added flavor, you can mix in seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or crushed red pepper flakes.
  3. Transfer to Baking Dish & Cover: If you mixed the ingredients in a separate bowl, pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
  4. Bake Initial: Bake covered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This will cook the pasta and chicken through partially, with the pasta remaining firm and some liquid left in the dish.
  5. Add Cheese & Breadcrumb Topping: Remove the foil and gently stir the casserole. Even if the pasta is still slightly firm, this is normal. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Bake Again Uncovered: Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Bake until the cheese has melted, is golden and bubbly, the topping is browned, and the chicken is completely cooked through.
  7. Serve: Optionally garnish with fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley. Serve the casserole hot and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal.

Notes

  • Cooking Time Variations: Cooking time may vary depending on the type of baking dish used (glass or ceramic takes longer than metal) and the pasta brand. Check doneness by tasting pasta; it should be al dente with most liquid absorbed.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.
  • Flavor Enhancements: Boost flavor by adding seasonings such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or sundried tomatoes.
  • 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, Comfort Food, Italian

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