Name: Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole: Comfort in a Pan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Penne Pasta (Uncooked pasta absorbs flavors while baking; can substitute with rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli); 1 jar Marinara Sauce (Offers a tangy base; a jar of your favorite store-bought sauce saves time); 2 cups Water (Ensure to measure carefully for proper cooking); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to your taste); 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (Add if you prefer, can be skipped for milder flavors); 1 pound Chicken Breast (Diced into bite-sized pieces; pre-cooked chicken can speed up preparation); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Provides a creamy texture that melts beautifully); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Imparts a delightful nuttiness and sharpness); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Adds a crispy topping; can substitute with regular breadcrumbs); 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (optional) (Use basil or parsley for garnish)

As I stood in my kitchen, the warm aromas of Italian herbs filled the air, taking me back to family dinners filled with laughter and love. This is the magic behind my Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole, a dish that effortlessly unites gooey cheese, tender chicken, and hearty pasta—all in a single pan. Not only is this delicious casserole a reassuring comfort food for any night of the week, but it also brings the joy of homemade Italian cuisine to your table with minimal prep and cleanup. Perfect for busy evenings, this family-friendly meal allows you to focus on what truly matters—creating memories with your loved ones. Are you ready to dive into a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat?

Why Is This Casserole a Family Favorite?

One-Pan Wonder: This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole simplifies mealtime with minimal mess and fuss while delivering maximum flavor.

Comforting Goodness: The combination of tender chicken, pasta, and rich marinara creates a warm embrace on your plate, perfect for satisfying cravings.

Time-Saving Delight: In just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal bubbling in your oven, allowing you to spend more time with your family rather than cleaning up.

Endless Versatility: Customize it with veggies or swap cheeses for a unique twist every time! It pairs beautifully with a refreshing side salad or some homemade garlic bread for a complete feast.

Experience the joy of cooking without the stress—give this casserole a try! You might also enjoy serving it alongside Grilled Chicken Sweet for a delightful combination of flavors!

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Ingredients

• Dive into this easy and comforting dish!

For the Casserole

Penne Pasta – Uncooked pasta absorbs flavors while baking; you can substitute with rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli.
Marinara Sauce – Offers a tangy base; a jar of your favorite store-bought sauce saves time.
Water – This cooking medium ensures the pasta cooks correctly; make sure to measure it carefully.
Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to your taste to balance the seasonings.
Ground Black Pepper – Adds depth; if you prefer milder flavors, you can skip it!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breast – Diced into bite-sized pieces for even cooking; pre-cooked chicken can speed up the preparation process.

For the Toppings

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides a creamy texture that melts beautifully; feel free to use an Italian cheese blend for extra flavor.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Imparts a delightful nuttiness and sharpness to the dish.
Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds a crispy topping; you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs for a different crunch.
Fresh Herbs (optional) – Use basil or parsley to garnish; they introduce freshness and a pop of color.

Now that you have all the delicious ingredients ready, let’s whip up a comforting masterpiece that the whole family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it warms up, take a moment to grease a 13×9 inch baking dish with nonstick spray, ensuring that the edges are well-coated to prevent sticking. This initial step sets the stage for a perfect bake, giving you a deliciously golden base for your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In your greased baking dish, add the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, and the specified amount of water. Sprinkle in salt and ground black pepper according to your taste. Next, incorporate the diced chicken breast into the mixture; this will create a hearty base. For an extra burst of flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning during this step for a delightful aroma.

Step 3: Bake Covered
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, making sure it seals well to trap the steam inside. Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. During this time, the pasta will absorb the marinara and water, creating a luscious foundation where all the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Add Toppings
Once the initial baking is complete, carefully remove the dish from the oven and take off the foil. Gently stir the mixture to combine everything thoroughly. Now it’s time to elevate your casserole: sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top, followed by a generous layer of panko breadcrumbs and the grated Parmesan cheese. This topping ensures a crispy finish to your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole.

Step 5: Final Bake
Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Watch closely as it cooks; you’re looking for the cheese to melt and bubble, forming a beautiful golden crust. When the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is perfectly melted, it’s time for the delicious reveal of your comforting casserole.

Step 6: Serve
Once your casserole is done baking, carefully take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few moments. If you like, garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for an inviting touch and added flavor. Scoop out generous portions, and get ready to enjoy this heartwarming Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole with your family!

Make Ahead Options

These Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casseroles are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by combining the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and diced chicken in your baking dish. Once prepared, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep the flavors intact and prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven and bake the casserole according to the original instructions, adding an additional few minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Pasta Perfect: Ensure the penne is uncooked before mixing with the sauce; this way it will bake to the perfect texture rather than becoming mushy.
Chicken Choice: For quicker prep, consider using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken—just chop it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Watch the Bake: Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your oven; always check that the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese has melted beautifully.
Season Smart: Taste the mixture before baking to adjust the salt and pepper—you want the flavors to shine through in your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole!
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Leftover Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days—reheat in the oven to maintain that delightful crispy topping!

How to Store and Freeze Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the casserole cool completely before sealing to retain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This helps keep the crispy topping intact.

Make-Ahead: To save time, prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to your baking time for a delicious Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole!

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Variations

Feel free to get creative with this cozy casserole and make it your own with these fun twists!

Pasta Swap: Use fusilli or rotini for a different bite! These shapes hold sauces remarkably well, enhancing each forkful.
Veggie Boost: Add spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients! A handful of fresh greens will elevate the flavors and add a delightful crunch.
Cheese Variety: Try sharp cheddar instead of mozzarella for a unique zing! Mixing cheeses can create layers of flavor, making each slice exciting.
Gluten-Free: Substitute pasta with gluten-free options like quinoa or brown rice! The casserole remains comforting while catering to dietary needs.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or oregano to enrich the flavors! The aromatic touch invites the essence of Italian cooking to your table.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat! This little addition will spice up your meal and reinvigorate your taste buds.
Meat Lovers: Incorporate diced pepperoni or Italian sausage for a hearty twist! It’s a fun way to give your casserole a meaty makeover.
Creamy Texture: Mix in a dollop of ricotta before baking for a cheesier texture! This step adds creaminess that takes the comfort factor to new heights.

Don’t miss the chance to serve it alongside a refreshing green salad or some homemade garlic bread for a well-rounded meal! And if you’re craving more flavors, consider pairing it with my delicious Thai Peanut Chicken for a delightful culinary experience.

What to Serve with Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that complement the savory goodness of this comforting dish.

Garlic Bread: This classic pairing offers a crispy, buttery contrast that’s perfect for soaking up marinara sauce.
Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad brings a crunchy, zesty element, creating a beautiful balance to the rich casserole.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green, tender broccoli provides a nutritious crunch, enhancing each bite while adding vibrant color to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables infuses earthy flavors, perfectly complementing the warm, cheesy casserole.
Italian Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats creates a mouthwatering starter that resonates with Italian cuisine’s charm.
Sangria: A chilled glass of sangria brings a fruity, refreshing twist that cuts through the richness, making it a splendid choice for your meal.
Tiramisu: For dessert, this delightful coffee-flavored treat rounds off your dinner, enveloping you in creamy, dreamy decadence that feels like a warm hug after a satisfying meal.

Delight in these suggestions as you gather around the table, turning your night into a cherished family moment filled with laughter and love.

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Look for pieces that are plump and pale in color without any dark spots. Fresh chicken should feel slightly moist but not slimy. If short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works wonders—just cut it into bite-sized pieces to mix into the casserole.

What’s the best way to store leftovers from the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
After enjoying a hearty meal, let your casserole cool down completely before transferring any leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure the best flavor, I recommend reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, helping to restore its beautiful, crispy topping!

Can I freeze the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze this delightful casserole for up to 2 months. To do so, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven as directed. That way, the flavors stay intact, and the topping remains crispy.

What if my pasta is mushy after baking?
Oh no! To prevent mushy pasta, don’t overcook it. Make sure you’re using uncooked pasta in the casserole, which absorbs moisture during baking. Additionally, if you have leftovers, be careful not to overheat them during reheating; doing so can also lead to softer pasta. If you find yourself with mushy pasta, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the dish when serving.

Is this casserole pet-friendly?
While the ingredients in the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole—like chicken and cheese—might be tempting for your furry friends, it’s best not to share. Pets may have trouble digesting seasonings and cheese. If you want to treat them, consider cooking plain chicken without spices or sauces instead!

What can I do if I run out of mozzarella cheese?
No worries! If you’re short on mozzarella, feel free to substitute it with any cheese that melts beautifully, like provolone or even cheddar. This will give your casserole a unique spin while still ensuring that gooey, cheesy experience we all love.