Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole combines tender pasta, crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheeses into a comforting and hearty dish. It’s a family-friendly meal that brings together the beloved flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan in an easy-to-make casserole form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Family-Friendly: Appeals to both adults and children, making it perfect for family dinners.The Lazy Dish
Convenient: Utilizes simple ingredients and can be prepared ahead of time.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with various ingredients to suit your preferences.
Comforting: Delivers the classic, cozy flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a baked pasta dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Penne pastaSix Sisters’ Stuff+3EatingWell+3Erin Lives Whole+3
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinara sauceEasy Family Recipes+5Allrecipes+5Six Sisters’ Stuff+5
Shredded mozzarella cheeseEasy Family Recipes+6Six Sisters’ Stuff+6Allrecipes+6
Grated Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoned bread crumbs
Eggs
All-purpose flour
Garlic powder
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.Healthy Fitness Meals+2Six Sisters’ Stuff+2Easy Family Recipes+2
Bread the Chicken: Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of bread crumbs and garlic powder. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip into the eggs, then coat with the bread crumb mixture.Allrecipes
Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Assemble the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Add the fried chicken pieces and gently stir to combine.Allrecipes+1Two Peas & Their Pod+1
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.Log in or sign up to view

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation Time: About 20 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes.

Variations

Vegetable Addition: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Protein Swap: Use cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or fontina for a unique flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and bread crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.The Seasoned Mom+2Healthy Fitness Meals+2To Simply Inspire+2
Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.To Simply Inspire
Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole as directed, but do not bake. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.

Can I use store-bought breaded chicken?

Yes, using pre-cooked breaded chicken tenders or nuggets can save time. Simply cut them into bite-sized pieces and proceed with the recipe.The Cozy Cook+1Easy Family Recipes+1

What type of pasta works best for this casserole?

Penne is commonly used, but other short pasta shapes like rotini, ziti, or rigatoni work well too.The Seasoned Mom+1Lemons & Zest+1

Is it necessary to fry the chicken, or can I bake it?

While frying gives a classic crispy texture, you can bake the breaded chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until cooked through as a healthier alternative.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming dry?

Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente and adequately coated with sauce. Covering the casserole with foil during the initial baking helps retain moisture.

Can I add extra cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese to suit your preference. Additional cheese can be mixed into the pasta or sprinkled on top before baking.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement the richness of the casserole.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Yes, homemade marinara sauce can enhance the flavor of the dish. Use your favorite recipe or a high-quality store-bought version.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños into the casserole for a spicy kick.

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole