Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an easy, comforting one-pan meal that combines uncooked penne pasta, tender chicken breast, marinara sauce, and plenty of cheese. With minimal prep and a straightforward baking process, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a cozy Italian-inspired dinner without fuss.

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

Protein

1½ lbs raw chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Cheeses and Toppings

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

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking during baking.
Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, black pepper, and bite-sized raw chicken pieces. Stir gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the liquids and the chicken to begin cooking.
Stir After Initial Bake: Remove the foil carefully, then stir the casserole. The pasta will be slightly firm with some remaining liquid, which is normal and necessary for proper cooking.
Add Cheese and Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend) cheese over the mixture, then top with panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for texture and flavor.
Bake Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown. The chicken should be fully cooked and the pasta tender.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy a hearty, cheesy chicken Parmesan casserole.

Notes

If you prefer a spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes along with the marinara sauce.
Using bite-sized chicken ensures even cooking and easy serving.
For a lower calorie version, use part-skim mozzarella and reduce the amount of breadcrumbs.
Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform sizes for consistent cooking.
The dish can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat covered to retain moisture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dinner, Casserole
Method: Bake
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 420
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: chicken parmesan casserole, dump-and-bake casserole, easy chicken dinner, baked pasta, penne pasta casserole, cheesy chicken bake, one-pan meal