Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that combines penne pasta, chicken breast, marinara sauce, and a generous topping of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs. Easy to prepare with minimal prep time, this casserole bakes in the oven to deliver a cheesy, flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights or casual family meals.

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

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 (220°C). 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 the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, ground black pepper, and diced raw chicken breast. Optionally, enhance flavors by adding garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish if mixed externally, then cover tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
Bake Covered: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the pasta to start cooking and the chicken to begin cooking through while the liquid is absorbed.
Add Cheese & Breadcrumbs: Carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole well. The pasta might still be firm and some liquid may remain, which is normal. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella (or Italian cheese blend), Panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake Again Uncovered: Return the dish, uncovered, to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are nicely browned. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
Serve: Optionally garnish with fresh chopped herbs such as basil or parsley. Serve the casserole hot for a delicious meal.

Notes

Cooking Time Variations: Cooking time may vary depending on your pan type, pasta brand, and oven performance. Glass or ceramic dishes generally require longer than metal pans.
Check Doneness: Taste the pasta to ensure it’s al dente and that most of the liquid is absorbed before adding toppings.
Avoid Overcooking: Do not over-bake after adding cheese to prevent mushy pasta and dry chicken.
Flavor Enhancements: Add extra seasoning with Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or sundried tomatoes for enhanced flavor.

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

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan Casserole, Dump and Bake, Easy Chicken Dinner, Baked Pasta, Family Meal, One Dish Meal