Go Back

Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole (No Pre-Cooking Required!)

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.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
  3. Spread uncooked pasta evenly in the dish, then top with seasoned chicken pieces.
  4. In a bowl, mix marinara sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
  5. Pour sauce mixture over pasta and chicken.
  6. Sprinkle 1½ cups mozzarella and ½ cup Parmesan evenly on top. Cover with foil.
  7. Bake covered for 35 minutes, then remove foil.
  8. Top with remaining cheeses mixed with panko and olive oil.
  9. Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  10. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil and extra Parmesan.

Notes

Use a 9x13-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.