Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting and easy one-dish meal that combines uncooked penne pasta, juicy chicken breast, marinara sauce, and a cheesy, crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for busy weeknights, it requires minimal prep and bakes all in one pan, delivering tender pasta and flavorful chicken in under an hour.

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 and Cheese

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

Topping

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

Optional Garnish

Fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish (or a large bowl), mix together the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and the bite-sized raw chicken pieces until evenly distributed.
Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the pasta to absorb the liquid and the chicken to start cooking.
Stir Mixture: Remove the foil and stir the casserole to redistribute the pasta and chicken. The pasta will be slightly firm, and some liquid may remain.
Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then evenly distribute the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy crust.
Bake Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the topping is golden brown, the pasta is tender, and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley if desired, then serve hot and enjoy your comforting chicken parmesan casserole.

Notes

Make sure the chicken is cut into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking within the baking time.
You can substitute Italian cheese blend or provolone for the mozzarella if preferred.
If you want a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture before baking.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

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

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Casserole, One-Dish Meal, Easy Dinner, Baked Pasta, Comfort Food