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Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 733 reviews
  • Author: Andria
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an easy, comforting one-dish meal combining uncooked penne pasta, tender chicken breast, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, all baked together to perfection. With minimal prep and no need to pre-cook the pasta or chicken, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering classic Italian flavors in a convenient casserole form.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Sauce

  • 1 (16 oz) package uncooked penne pasta
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (about 1 jar, 24 oz)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Ground black pepper, to taste

Chicken

  • 1 ½ lbs raw chicken breast, cut 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 like basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish or a large bowl, mix the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and bite-sized raw chicken pieces thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
  3. Bake Covered: Transfer the mixture into the baking dish if needed, then cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap in moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the liquid and the chicken to begin cooking.
  4. Stir Mixture: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole. The pasta will still be slightly firm and some liquid may remain, which is expected.
  5. Add Cheese and Toppings: Evenly top the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
  6. Bake Uncovered: Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, pasta is tender, and the chicken is fully cooked through.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy your hearty chicken parmesan casserole.

Notes

  • Make sure to cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure it cooks thoroughly in the baking time.
  • Using a tightly sealed foil cover during the first baking phase helps the pasta cook in the sauce without drying out.
  • If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after baking uncovered, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • You can substitute gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: chicken parmesan casserole, dump and bake recipe, easy chicken pasta bake, one dish chicken dinner, comfort food, baked pasta casserole

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