Why Make This Recipe
Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a simple and tasty meal that brings comfort food to your table with minimal effort. It combines tender chicken, pasta, and cheesy goodness all baked into one dish. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the ease of preparation means less time cleaning up afterward!
How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients:
- 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
- 1 ½ lbs raw chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or Italian cheese blend)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- Optional: Fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In the prepared dish (or in a large separate bowl), combine the uncooked penne, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and raw chicken.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Bake for 30 minutes, ensuring the pasta absorbs the liquid during this time.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and stir the mixture. At this point, the pasta will be slightly firm, and there may still be some liquid – that’s perfectly fine!
- Top with shredded mozzarella, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Continue baking uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the top is golden brown, the pasta is tender, and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired, then serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Serve this dish hot from the oven. It goes great with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some additional herbs or extra cheese on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool down and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- If you like your casserole with more sauce, feel free to add an extra cup of marinara sauce.
- You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Just mix it with the other ingredients without the baking step.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a little heat or ricotta for creaminess.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Cook them briefly before mixing with the other ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use other pasta shapes instead of penne?
Yes, you can use any other pasta shape you prefer, but make sure it is a shape that cooks well in baked dishes.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
You can use a different type of sauce, like Alfredo or a creamy tomato sauce, to change up the flavor of the casserole.
Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In the prepared dish (or in a large separate bowl), combine the uncooked penne, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and raw chicken.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture.
- Bake for 30 minutes, ensuring the pasta absorbs the liquid during this time.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and stir the mixture.
- Top with shredded mozzarella, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Continue baking uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the top is golden brown, the pasta is tender, and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired, then serve and enjoy!