Name: Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole in a Snap
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Penne Pasta (can substitute with ziti or fusilli); 1 jar Marinara Sauce (about 24 oz); 2 cups Water; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper; 1 pound Raw Chicken Breast (cut into bite-sized pieces); 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (or Italian cheese blend); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional); to taste Fresh Herbs (Basil/Parsley) (for garnish)

As I hurriedly tossed the last few ingredients into my baking dish, I could almost hear the sweet symphony of sizzling cheese and bubbling sauce in my mind. This Quick and Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole has become my weekday superhero, transforming chaotic dinners into delicious experiences in less than an hour. Not only is it a breeze to prepare—with everything cooked in just one pan—but it also offers that comforting taste of classic chicken parmesan that everyone loves. With its gooey mozzarella, savory marinara, and a delightful crunch on top, it’s a meal that brings the family together without the fuss. Are you ready to simplify dinner while still impressing your loved ones? Let’s dive into this one-pan wonder!

Why Is This Casserole a Game-Changer?

Simplicity at Its Best: Just throw everything into one pan and pop it in the oven—no messy prep required!

Time-Saving Delight: In under an hour, you’ll serve up an impressive dinner that rivals any restaurant dish.

Flavor Explosion: The rich marinara, melty mozzarella, and crunchy topping create a mouthwatering combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Flexible & Fun: Feel free to mix and match ingredients! Substitute pasta, add your favorite veggies, or try out different cheeses for an exciting twist.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this casserole satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some homemade garlic bread, just like my Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe!

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for this delicious dish!

For the Casserole

Penne Pasta – The hearty base that cooks right in the sauce; substitute with ziti or fusilli if preferred.
Marinara Sauce – Offers a rich, tangy flavor and moisture; you’ll need one jar (about 24 oz).
Water – This helps cook the pasta and forms the sauce base.
Salt – Essential for seasoning the ingredients and elevating flavors.
Ground Black Pepper – Adds depth; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Raw Chicken Breast – Cut into bite-sized pieces for tender, juicy chicken; ensure it’s fresh or fully thawed if using frozen.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts perfectly for a creamy topping; can be swapped for an Italian cheese blend if desired.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, final touch that enhances the dish.
Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a delightful crunch on top; optional but highly recommended.
Fresh Herbs (Basil/Parsley) – Use as a garnish for an extra pop of flavor and appeal.

Enjoy the ease and satisfaction of crafting this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole that’ll make your weeknight dinners feel special!

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, take a 13×9-inch baking dish and coat it generously with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. This step ensures your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole comes out perfectly golden on the outside and tender on the inside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, water, salt, ground black pepper, and bite-sized raw chicken pieces. Stir the ingredients until everything is evenly coated and mixed. This creates a flavorful sauce that will cook the pasta while infusing it with the rich flavors of the chicken and marinara.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the combined mixture from the bowl into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Next, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the liquid and soften up nicely.

Step 4: Add Toppings
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil and stir the contents of the casserole. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This layer will create a deliciously gooey and crunchy topping that complements the comforting pasta beneath.

Step 5: Final Bake
Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. You’ll know the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is ready when the pasta is tender, and the chicken is fully cooked through, making for a satisfying, hearty meal.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to settle. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of flavor and color. Your beautiful Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is now ready to be served!

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

Enhance your dining experience with some delightful side dishes that perfectly complement this comforting casserole.

Garlic Bread: Its buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce from the casserole.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant veggie brings a nutritional boost and a bit of crunch to balance the rich flavors of the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: An assortment of roasted seasonal veggies adds a caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken parmesan.

For those who love a sweet finish to their meal, consider serving Tiramisu. Its creamy layers of coffee-soaked goodness offer a delightful way to end on a high note.

Finally, don’t forget to serve a chilled glass of Italian Red Wine. The wine’s acidity complements the dish’s tomato sauce beautifully, making each bite a little celebration!

Expert Tips for Dump-and-Bake Casserole

Perfect Pasta: Ensure the pasta is uncooked while mixing it with the rest of the ingredients. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy in this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole.
Liquid Level: If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add a bit more water or marinara sauce. Just be careful not to overdo it to avoid a soupy texture.
Chicken Quality: Always use fresh or fully thawed chicken to guarantee even cooking. Frozen or partially thawed pieces may lead to unevenly cooked chicken.
Flavor Boost: Add Italian seasoning or garlic powder to elevate the flavors. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can bring a nice kick to the dish!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep your casserole ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooked from cold.

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own with these fun and easy twists that will add a burst of excitement!

Pasta Swap: Substitute penne with ziti, rotini, or fusilli for a different texture and shape. Each pasta offers a unique bite, making your casserole even more delightful!
Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the mix for a dose of nutrition and added flavor. The fresh veggies will create a colorful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Spice it Up: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick the heat level up a notch. This option is sure to satisfy fans of spicy food!
Cheese Lovers: Swap mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Experimenting with different cheeses can elevate the creaminess and flavors in this comforting dish.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or a splash of heavy cream before baking for a richer, creamier texture that adds a whole new layer of decadence.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh or dried Italian herbs, like oregano or thyme, to amplify the aromatic qualities of the casserole. This will create a lovely, fragrant dish reminiscent of Italian restaurants.
Meat Variation: Use ground turkey or beef as a substitute for chicken for a different protein option. Not only does this keep things interesting, but it also allows for a tasty variation in flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cheese alternative and consider substituting almond milk for water. Delight your dairy-sensitive friends and family without sacrificing flavor.

Each variation helps you craft a Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole that fits your family’s taste buds perfectly, making it a flexible meal option you’ll return to again and again! If you’re curious about more family favorites, check out my recipe for Chicken Cordon Bleu or try the delicious Dorito Chicken Casserole!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments on busy weeknights! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance; simply prepare the mixture of uncooked penne, marinara sauce, water, salt, pepper, and chicken, then cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. To maintain quality and texture, avoid adding the cheese topping until just before baking. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven—just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it’s coming from the fridge. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort whenever hunger strikes!

Storage Tips for Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the casserole in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes for best results. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option, but may lose some texture.
Make-Ahead: If you assemble your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole ahead of time, it can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add extra baking time if coming straight from the fridge.

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta can I use in this casserole?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole, you can easily substitute it with ziti, fusilli, or rotini. Just ensure the pasta is uncooked when you add it to the dish for the best texture.

How should I store leftovers from the casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it for storage to maintain freshness.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Very! You can assemble the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole and cover it with foil for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to bake, keep in mind you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s chilled.

What should I do if my pasta seems overcooked?
If you notice that the pasta has overcooked and become mushy, it’s a sign that too much moisture was present. Always check to ensure you have enough liquid before baking and avoid removing the cover too early. The trapped steam is crucial for cooking the pasta perfectly!

Are there any dietary considerations for this casserole?
It’s important to note that the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole contains chicken and dairy ingredients such as mozzarella and Parmesan. If you or someone you’re serving has allergies, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives and substituting chicken with a meat of your choice or veggies for a plant-based option. Always ensure ingredients are safe for your dietary needs.