If you’re looking for a delightful yet fuss-free meal that the entire family will enjoy, look no further than the Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This comforting dish, rich with savory Italian flavors, is the epitome of easy chicken casserole recipes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or hearty chicken dishes to savor on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Let’s dive into creating this delicious, family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy chicken casserole:

• Chicken and Pasta
  • 2 cups of cooked chicken breast, shredded – For best flavor, use rotisserie chicken or cook your chicken breasts in advance and shred after cooling. If you prefer, leftover roasted chicken works as a great substitute, adding a deeper richness to the dish.
  • 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta or any other short pasta – Make sure to choose a pasta that holds sauce well like fusilli or ziti. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are excellent alternatives to suit dietary preferences.
• Sauce
  • 2 cups of marinara sauce – Opt for a high-quality, flavorful marinara or make your own for a fresher taste. A touch of garlic or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the sauce’s depth if desired.
  • 1/2 cup of heavy cream – This adds a rich and creamy texture that balances the acidity of the marinara. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a creamy plant-based milk.
• Cheese
  • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese – Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged options. Feel free to experiment with a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
  • 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese – For a more pronounced flavor, consider using freshly grated Parmesan. Aged Parmesan can add an extra layer of sophisticated taste.
• Toppings
  • 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs – These provide a delightful crunch and can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs if preferred. For added flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped fresh parsley or garlic into the breadcrumbs.
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil – Use extra virgin olive oil for added flavor. Infused oils, such as garlic or basil, can impart an additional aromatic element.
  • 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs – A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme works beautifully here. Experiment with adding rosemary or marjoram for a different herbal twist.

Steps / Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect one-pot chicken dish: Check out our related guide for more tips.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Ensure your oven is properly preheated to cook the casserole evenly. Consider using a glass or ceramic dish for even heat distribution.
2. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until just al dente, around 8 minutes. Drain and set aside. Al dente pasta will absorb the sauce without becoming mushy. Test the pasta by biting into a piece; it should be firm to the bite yet cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and heavy cream. Stir until everything is well coated. This ensures an even distribution of flavors across the dish. Ensure the chicken and sauce are well mixed to avoid dry spots.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Even layering helps it cook uniformly in the oven. Use a spatula to smooth the top for a neat finish.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. For an extra cheesy top, feel free to add more mozzarella. Ensure the cheese covers the dish evenly for a golden, bubbly crust.
6. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and Italian herbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer. The breadcrumbs should cover the cheese layer fully for an even crust. Gently press down with a spatula to secure the topping.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Check after 25 minutes to ensure the top doesn’t over-brown. Rotate the dish halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy baked chicken with hints of savory Italian flavors. Allowing it to cool helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve. A cooling time of about 5-10 minutes is ideal for optimal serving consistency.

Tips & Tricks

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best results. If using a microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before baking. This prevents a longer baking time due to cold ingredients. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. Also, be cautious with salt since the cheese and sauce may already add sufficient seasoning. Taste the sauce before adding any additional salt during preparation.
• Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a cup of sautéed mushrooms to the mix. These add complexity and depth to the dish. Consider caramelizing the mushrooms for a more intense flavor.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to suit dietary needs. Ensure all other ingredients, like marinara sauce, are also gluten-free certified. Double-check labels to confirm they meet gluten-free standards.
• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with tofu and use dairy-free cheese and cream alternatives. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Try adding roasted vegetables for added nutrition and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for some heat. Adjust the amount to suit your spice level preference. Alternatively, try using pepper jack cheese for a subtle spicy undertone.

Serving Suggestions

This Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole pairs beautifully with a side of Bow Tie Pasta Salad or a fresh homemade coleslaw. For dessert, consider offering a sweet treat like Pineapple Upside Down Cake to complement the savory flavors of the meal. A crusty garlic bread or a glass of red wine can also make the meal more indulgent. For a lighter option, consider serving with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

FAQ

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

• Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli will work well. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary based on package instructions. Whole grain options are also a nutritious substitute.
• Is it necessary to pre-cook the pasta? Pre-cooking the pasta ensures it won’t be undercooked in the casserole. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture. Skipping this step may result in unevenly cooked pasta.
• Can I freeze this casserole? This dish can be frozen before baking; just ensure it is well wrapped and use within 3 months for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.

Print

Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Recipe by m h

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: Italian Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4-6 +

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Calories

—

A delightful yet fuss-free meal rich with savory Italian flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or hearty chicken dishes.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 2 cups of cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta or any other short pasta
• 2 cups of marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs

Directions

1.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2.

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until just al dente, around 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3.

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and heavy cream. Stir until everything is well coated.

4.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

5.

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.

6.

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and Italian herbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.

7.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

8.

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.