If you’re on the hunt for a deeply satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner that checks every comfort-food box, look no further than this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken, swirled through with pasta and rich marinara, blanketed in oozy mozzarella and Parmesan, all finished with a buttery, golden breadcrumb topping. This is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable, and it’s incredibly easy to pull together—even on the busiest weeknights. Best of all, this casserole delivers all the cozy flavors of classic chicken parm in a quick, one-dish format!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe comes from a handful of simple, accessible ingredients, each one playing its part in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a little wisdom for making each ingredient shine.
- Cooked chicken breast: Use shredded or diced chicken; rotisserie chicken works brilliantly for speed without flavor sacrifice.
- Penne or rotini pasta: These short shapes hold the sauce perfectly and give you that classic pasta bake bite.
- Marinara sauce: A good-quality jarred sauce brings brightness and acidity; homemade works beautifully, too.
- Italian seasoning: This blend brings a fragrant Italian flair, uniting everything with herbal notes.
- Garlic powder: Adds depth, mingling seamlessly into the rich sauce for irresistible savoriness.
- Salt: Essential for coaxing out all the flavors—don’t skip the seasoning!
- Black pepper: Brings a subtle underlying heat that makes every bite pop.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey blanket, giving you those dreamy cheese pulls.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers sharp, nutty richness that’s unmistakable in chicken parmesan.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: Adds that irresistible crisp on top; opt for seasoned for extra flavor.
- Melted butter: Tossed with breadcrumbs, it creates a golden, decadent topping in the oven.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley: A sprinkle right before serving brightens and freshens up every portion.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s just al dente—you want it a smidge firmer than usual, as it will continue to bake in the oven. Drain the pasta well so excess water doesn’t dilute your casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
In your biggest mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cooked pasta. Stir it all together until the chicken and pasta are glossy and coated with sauce—it should look downright irresistible even at this stage!
Step 3: Layer in the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the pasta and chicken mixture evenly inside. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor and nothing sticks to the bottom.
Step 4: Add Cheese Toppings
Now for the heart and soul of this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the casserole. These cheeses will melt and bubble, creating that signature cheesy-top finish.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Breadcrumbs
In a small bowl, mix the Italian-style breadcrumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Scatter this mixture over the cheese layer. This step gives you the most crave-worthy, golden crunchy top you’ll talk about for days.
Step 6: Bake to Golden, Bubbling Perfection
Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole should be bubbly around the edges, and the top beautifully golden. Let it rest for about five minutes before serving so things set up just enough to lift out each serving easily.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A generous handful of fresh chopped basil or parsley scattered over the top right before serving is an absolute must. The herbs add a burst of color and a fresh aroma that takes the entire dish up a notch. For those who love a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes over each serving can be a game-changer.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole is practically a meal on its own, but if you want to round out dinner, serve with a crisp green salad dressed simply in vinaigrette or some garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-American comfort combo. A side of roasted vegetables also brings brightness and makes your meal complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for an extra-special touch, or scoop big, generous portions right at the table to create that family-style feel everyone loves. Another fun idea? Drizzle with a little extra warmed marinara, or top with an extra grating of Parmesan and scatter some microgreens for an elegant finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them into airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, this casserole will stay delicious and inviting for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for easy lunches or fast dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish is a freezer superstar! You can assemble the Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe up to the point before baking, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed when you’re ready for a cozy, just-like-fresh dinner.
Reheating
To recapture the magic, reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the casserole (covered with foil) in a 350°F oven until heated through. If you’d like to refresh that crispy top, uncover for the last few minutes of reheating under the broiler.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne and rotini hold up well, you can swap in rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli. The key is to use a sturdy shape that will catch plenty of sauce and cheese.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Choose your favorite gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs—just be sure to check your marinara sauce for any hidden gluten, and you’re good to go.
What if I don’t have Italian-style breadcrumbs?
No problem. Plain breadcrumbs can be seasoned with a pinch of dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, and a little salt. You’ll achieve a similar delicious crunch and flavor.
How can I make this casserole creamier?
For an ultra-creamy twist, add dollops of ricotta cheese to the pasta mixture before baking. It melts into the casserole, creating rich pockets of creamy goodness alongside the melty mozzarella.
Can I prepare Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe ahead for a party?
You sure can. Assemble everything ahead of time (up to the breadcrumb topping), cover, and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking so it stays crisp and toasty.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that brings together the best parts of pasta night and chicken Parmesan, this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe is your new go-to. It’s comforting, customizable, and sure to win over your family and friends every single time. Can’t wait for you to give it a try!
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Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan with this easy-to-make pasta casserole. A delicious blend of tender chicken, pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey cheeses, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the casserole: In a bowl, mix chicken, marinara sauce, seasonings, and pasta. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the casserole.
- Make the topping: Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter; sprinkle over the cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest before serving. Garnish with basil or parsley.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for quicker prep.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a layer of ricotta for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 670 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
