Description
Looking for a quick, comforting meal that the whole family will love? This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the answer! With just a handful of simple ingredients and no prep hassle, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy dinner ready in under an hour.
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
Instructions
- 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!
Notes
- Cooking times may vary based on the type of pan, pasta, and your oven. Glass or ceramic dishes may require a little longer.
- Always check the pasta by tasting a bite. It should be al dente, and most of the liquid should be absorbed.
- To avoid mushy pasta, be careful not to overcook it.
- You can also mix in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian