Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

 

Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole: Easy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

Why You'll Love This Dish

If you love Chicken Parmesan but dread the prep work, this Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is your new best friend. No breading, no frying—just mix, bake, and enjoy a cheesy, saucy masterpiece that brings all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan with half the effort. It's a perfect weeknight meal, great for feeding a crowd, and reheats like a dream!

---

Ingredients: What You'll Need

Before we get started, here's your shopping list. This recipe keeps things simple while packing in flavor!

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta (or any short pasta)

• 2 cups marinara sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)

• 1 ½ cups water

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized cubes)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Recommended Brands:

• Marinara Sauce: Rao’s or Classico for a rich, homemade taste

• Pasta: Barilla or De Cecco for great texture

• Cheese: Whole milk mozzarella for maximum meltiness

---

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

No complicated steps here! Just a few easy moves and you’ll be on your way to a satisfying, cheesy casserole.

1. Preheat & Prep

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Combine Everything

In the baking dish, mix together:

• Uncooked pasta

• Marinara sauce

• Water

• Italian seasoning

• Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

• Chicken breast pieces

Stir everything together to make sure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.

3. Cover & Bake

• Cover the dish tightly with foil.

• Bake for 35 minutes to allow the pasta to cook through.

4. Add the Cheesy Topping

• Remove the foil.

• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

• Mix the bread crumbs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle over the cheese for a crispy topping.

5. Bake Again

• Return to the oven uncovered for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

---

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, try these delicious pairings:

• Garlic Bread: The perfect way to soak up extra sauce.

• Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad balances the richness.

• Roasted Veggies: Try asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.

For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top before serving.

---

Pro Tips & Variations

• Extra Crunch: Want an ultra-crispy topping? Mix in some panko breadcrumbs with the regular breadcrumbs for added texture.

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top before serving.

• Make It Creamy: Stir in ¼ cup of ricotta cheese before baking for a richer texture.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and swap out the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative.

• Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly twist.

---

Wrap-Up: Why This Recipe Works

This Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole delivers big on flavor without the hassle. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, the chicken stays juicy, and the cheesy topping gives you that irresistible, golden-brown crust. Plus, it’s family-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and 100% delicious.

Fun fact: The origins of Chicken Parmesan trace back to Italian immigrants in America who adapted classic Eggplant Parmesan into a heartier dish featuring chicken. This casserole simplifies it even further, making it a true weeknight hero.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your baking dish, dump, bake, and enjoy!