A no-fuss, family-friendly dinner — this dump-and-bake chicken Parmesan casserole is cheesy, saucy, and baked to perfection with almost no prep time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal prep: everything goes in the dish raw.

• Cheesy, saucy, and comforting — perfect for weeknights.

• Customizable: add veggies like spinach or mushrooms if desired.

• Feeds a family with just one pan and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 12 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)

• 3 cups marinara sauce

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup water or chicken broth

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~430 kcal per serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Layer Pasta and Chicken

Spread uncooked pasta evenly in the dish. Top with raw chicken pieces.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Seasonings

Pour marinara sauce and water (or broth) over everything. Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover with foil and bake 35 minutes.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

Remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

• Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster version — reduce bake time slightly.

• Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a richer taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Adjust cooking time according to package instructions if needed.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, assemble uncooked, cover tightly, and freeze. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 55–60 minutes.

Can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce for some heat.

Final Thoughts

This Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a simple, cheesy, and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite!