Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an easy, one-dish meal combining penne pasta, tender chicken breast, and rich marinara sauce baked to perfection with a golden, cheesy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers comforting Italian flavors with minimal prep and cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 (16 oz) package uncooked penne pasta
3 cups marinara sauce (about 1 24-ounce jar)
3 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 ½ lbs. raw chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

Cheese and Topping

1–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or Italian cheese blend)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

Optional Garnish

Fresh chopped herbs (such as basil or parsley)

Instructions

Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Mix Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish or a large bowl, combine the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, ground black pepper, and diced raw chicken. For added flavor, you may incorporate seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Transfer to Baking Dish & Cover: If you mixed in a bowl, pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and promote even cooking while the pasta and chicken bake.
Bake Covered: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This initial baking softens the pasta and begins cooking the chicken.
Add Cheese & Breadcrumbs: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and gently stir the casserole. The pasta will still be firm and some liquid may remain, which is normal. Evenly sprinkle mozzarella cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Bake until the cheese melts, bubbles and turns golden brown, the breadcrumbs are toasted, and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot. This hearty casserole is perfect for a satisfying family meal.

Notes

Cooking Time Variations: Cooking time may vary based on your pan type, pasta brand, and oven temperature. Glass or ceramic dishes may require longer baking times than metal pans.
Avoid Overcooking: Taste the pasta to ensure it is cooked al dente and avoid overcooking to prevent mushy texture.
Flavor Enhancements: For more depth, add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or sundried tomatoes when mixing the ingredients.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: chicken parmesan casserole, easy chicken casserole, dump and bake recipe, Italian casserole, baked penne pasta, family dinner, one dish meal