The Delight of Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole bubbling away in the oven, and the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole truly embodies that comfort! This dish not only satisfies the palate but also offers a delightful blend of flavors—think tender chicken, creamy cheese, and tangy marinara sauce, all mingling with cooked penne pasta. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a hectic week filled with soccer practices and work deadlines. It quickly became a go-to because of its simplicity and the joy it brings to my family around the dinner table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Easy to whip up and delicious to devour, this casserole is tailor-made for busy weeknights or even elegant weekend dinners. It’s a one-dish meal that combines the beloved flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a dump-and-bake approach. You can have dinner on the table in under an hour, and the best part? Minimal cleanup! This dish is fantastic for meal prep and loved by kids and adults alike.

"This casserole has turned into a family favorite! It’s so easy, and everyone enjoys it. Plus, the leftovers are just as good!" – A happy home cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating this delicious casserole involves a straightforward process that anyone can master. Begin by gathering your ingredients and preparing your baking dish. Then, combine your ingredients in strategic layers, pop it in the oven, and wait as the aromas fill your kitchen. Trust me—it’s as simple as that!

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting casserole:

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

Feel free to play around with the cheese types or mix in some veggies if you want to sneak in extra nutrients!

Cooking Steps

Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked penne, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and raw chicken pieces.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the liquid.
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir. The pasta will be slightly firm with some liquid remaining.
Top the dish with shredded mozzarella, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes. Look for melted cheese with a golden-brown top and fully cooked chicken.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy!

Serving Ideas

You can get creative with how you serve this delicious dish. Pair it with a crisp side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or a classic Caesar salad can also make wonderful companions. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped basil or parsley on top before serving!

Best Way to Store Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

If you find that you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), you can store them easily. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days, or you can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Pro Chef Tips

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Since you’re using raw chicken, make sure to monitor the cooking time closely to prevent dryness.
Experiment with Cheeses: Try using different cheese blends to discover what your family loves most. Gouda and provolone work beautifully too!
Add Vegetables: Consider adding in some diced bell peppers or spinach for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility! Want to switch it up? Here are some ideas:

Spicy Option: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with your choice of protein or hearty vegetables like eggplant or zucchini.
Cheesy Twist: Incorporate different cheese types, such as ricotta for creaminess or feta for a tangy touch.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare? It takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to cook, making it a quick weeknight meal.
Can I make this dish in advance? Yes! You can pre-assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for a day before baking, or freeze it before cooking for later.
Is it safe to reheat leftovers? Absolutely! Just make sure to heat it thoroughly and enjoy within three days if kept in the fridge. Freezer leftovers should be consumed within three months.

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a game-changer for busy nights, allowing for more quality time with family and friends. Happy cooking!

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Poultry

Description

A comforting one-dish meal that combines the flavors of Chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a dump-and-bake approach, featuring tender chicken and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

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 oven to 425°F and lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked penne, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and raw chicken pieces.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir. The pasta will be slightly firm with some liquid remaining.
Top the dish with shredded mozzarella, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

For best results, do not overcook the chicken and feel free to experiment with different cheese blends.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, dump-and-bake, easy dinner, family meal