Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 6 reviews
  • Author: Lora
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting, all-in-one meal that combines tender penne pasta, juicy chicken breast, marinara sauce, and a cheesy breadcrumb topping. With minimal prep and a simple baking method, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty Italian-inspired dinner without the fuss. The casserole bakes covered to ensure the pasta absorbs all the flavors, then finishes uncovered to get a golden, bubbly cheese crust that's irresistible.

Ingredients

Pasta and Sauce

  • 1 (16 ounce) 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

  • 1½ 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 fresh basil or fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and spray a 13x9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. In the dish or in a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, ground black pepper, and diced raw chicken pieces thoroughly so that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
  2. First Bake with Cover: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish if it was mixed separately. Cover tightly with aluminum foil, ensuring a secure seal to trap moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step allows the pasta to absorb the liquids and the chicken to begin cooking inside the sauce.
  3. Stir and Add Toppings: Remove the foil carefully and stir the pasta mixture well. At this point, the pasta will still be firm and there will be noticeable liquid in the dish, which is expected. Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend over the top of the pasta and chicken. Then, sprinkle the Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the cheese layer.
  4. Final Bake Uncovered: Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Bake until the cheese has melted thoroughly, the topping is golden brown, the pasta is tender, and the chicken is fully cooked through. The uncovered baking crisps the topping to create a delicious texture contrast.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or parsley if desired. Allow to cool slightly before serving to enjoy a flavorful and hearty Chicken Parmesan Casserole.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of red wine to the pasta mixture before baking.
  • Ensure the baking dish is covered tightly with foil during the first bake to lock in moisture so the pasta cooks properly.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish to add a fresh pop of flavor and color.
  • This recipe can be easily doubled for larger families or meal prepping.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat covered in the oven or microwave.

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