Description
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is the ultimate one-dish wonder — rich, cheesy, and bursting with authentic Italian flavors, yet effortless to prepare in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 16 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning blend
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Additional Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
- Spread uncooked pasta evenly in the dish, then top with seasoned chicken pieces.
- In a bowl, mix marinara sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour sauce mixture over pasta and chicken.
- Sprinkle 1½ cups mozzarella and ½ cup Parmesan evenly on top. Cover with foil.
- Bake covered for 35 minutes, then remove foil.
- Top with remaining cheeses mixed with panko and olive oil.
- Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Use a 9×13-inch dish to ensure even cooking. Covering with foil during baking keeps the chicken moist and pasta tender. For extra flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: chicken parmesan, casserole, dump and bake, pasta bake, easy dinner