Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish combining tender chicken, penne pasta, marinara sauce, and a cheesy breadcrumb topping. Designed for minimal prep, it’s all mixed in one dish and baked to bubbly, golden perfection, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

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

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.
Mix Ingredients: In the prepared dish or a large bowl, combine uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and diced chicken. For enhanced flavor, you may add seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into the greased baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture while baking. Place it in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Add Cheese & Breadcrumbs: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole to redistribute ingredients. The pasta may be firm and there could be some remaining liquid—that is expected. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, Panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake Again: Return the uncovered baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Bake until the cheese melts, bubbles, and turns golden brown, and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Serve: Once baked, garnish with fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley if desired. Serve the casserole hot for a hearty meal.

Notes

Cooking Time Variations: Baking times may vary depending on your oven type and the pan used. Glass or ceramic pans usually require longer baking times than metal pans.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the pasta to avoid mushiness. It should be tender but still slightly firm (al dente).
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to boost the dish’s flavor with additional seasonings such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or even sundried tomatoes.

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

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan Casserole, one dish meal, baked pasta, easy dinner, cheesy casserole, chicken pasta bake