When life gets busy, it’s essential to have a handful of easy, comforting recipes at your disposal. One of those cherished dishes is the Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This delightful meal combines all the classic flavors of chicken parmesan into one easy-to-make casserole. With its hands-off preparation style, you can focus on what really matters while ensuring a hearty meal is on the table. This dish not only simplifies dinner time, but it also guarantees satisfaction for the entire family.
Why We Love This Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Every home cook loves a dish that is straightforward yet delicious. The Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole checks both boxes effortlessly. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you are feeding a crowd or preparing leftovers for busy weeknights, this casserole shines in its simplicity.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in the convenience but also in the classic flavors. The melty mozzarella combined with the savory marinara envelops the penne pasta perfectly, ensuring that each bite is reminiscent of the beloved chicken parmesan you know and love. Plus, it comes together in a way that makes cleanup a breeze. With one baking dish and minimal prep, you won’t see a mountain of dishes piling up in the sink.
Ingredients about Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
To create your mouthwatering Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole, gather the following ingredients. These simple yet effective components come together in harmony to produce a dish that you and your family will adore.
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup turkey ham or turkey pepperoni (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for topping)
How to Make Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole Directions
Creating this delightful casserole involves minimal effort. Here’s how you can put it together in no time:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.
- Prepare Your Dish: Fetch a 9×13-inch baking dish. Thankfully, there’s no need to grease it, as the ingredients will create enough moisture during baking.
- Add Pasta: Pour the uncooked penne pasta directly into the baking dish. Make sure the pasta is evenly distributed across the bottom — this will help with even cooking.
- Layer in Chicken: Next, scatter the cooked chicken breast over the pasta. If you opt to include turkey ham or turkey pepperoni, now’s the time to add that as well. This layer adds extra flavor and heartiness to the dish.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the marinara sauce, water or chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until the seasoning is well blended with the sauce.
- Pour the Sauce: Carefully pour the sauce mixture evenly over the pasta and chicken layers. It’s essential that all the pasta gets submerged in the sauce to ensure proper cooking.
- Cheese Toppings: Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. This layer will melt and form a deliciously gooey topping.
- Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. This step will enhance the topping’s flavor and achieve that delightful crunch.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer. This will create a golden, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap heat and steam for the first half of baking. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step allows the cheese to bubble and the breadcrumbs to turn golden brown.
- Let it Rest: Once the casserole is cooked through and the topping is beautifully golden, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the flavors to settle and the casserole to firm up slightly, making serving easier.
How to Serve Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Serving your Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is just as easy as making it. Here are some tips to ensure a delightful experience:
- Plate it Up: Using a spatula, carefully scoop a portion of the casserole onto a plate. Take care not to disturb the layers too much; you want that beautiful presentation.
- Garnish: For a fresh touch, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s overall aesthetic.
- Pair It Wisely: This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the rich flavors of the casserole wonderfully.
- Enjoy: Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy your culinary masterpiece together. The flavors and aromas will surely make everyone’s mouths water.
Expert Tips: Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Elevate your casserole game with these expert tips:
- Cooked Chicken: Using leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken saves time and enhances flavor. It’s a fantastic way to utilize leftovers and minimize preparation time.
- Broth for Flavor: Opt for chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor profile. It enhances the overall taste, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment with other cheeses. Blends like provolone or parmesan can offer unique flavors.
- Bread Crumbs Texture: For a crunchier topping, consider using panko breadcrumbs. They create an extra crispy crust that you’ll love digging into.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the seasoning according to your taste. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes; if you prefer a more classic flavor, omit any extra spices.
How to Store Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), storing them properly is key to enjoying them later.
- Cool Down: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Properly frozen, it can last for up to 3 months.
- Reheat Carefully: When re-heating, it’s best to use the oven to regain that lovely texture. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
Variation of Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen. Here are a few variations to customize your Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole to suit your preferences:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. This makes for a hearty vegetarian dish that’s just as satisfying.
- Different Pasta Shapes: Feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta. Each shape offers a different texture and fun presentation.
- Spicy Add-Ons: For those who love some heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- Extra Creaminess: Mix in a cup of ricotta cheese for an extra creamy texture. This pairs beautifully with the marinara and makes the casserole even more indulgent.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish wonderfully. Consider adding fresh basil or oregano either in the sauce or sprinkled on top right before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
A Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is an easy-to-make one-dish meal that combines uncooked pasta, chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese, all baked together. It requires minimal prep and creates a comforting dinner option.
How long does it take to make Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
From start to finish, you can expect this casserole to take about an hour, including bake time. It’s a quick and hassle-free meal that’s perfect for busy evenings.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
It’s best to use cooked chicken for this casserole, as frozen raw chicken will not cook thoroughly during the baking process when layered with the other ingredients.
What sides go well with Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole?
Simple sides like a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables are great companions to this rich casserole. They balance the flavors and add freshness to your meal.
How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?
To make a larger quantity, simply double the ingredients. You may need to increase the baking time slightly to accommodate the larger volume.
Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Equipment
- Oven
- 9×13 inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Uncooked Penne Pasta
- 2 cups Cooked Chicken Breast diced or shredded
- 2 cups Marinara Sauce
- 1.25 cups Water or Chicken Broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 0.5 cup Turkey Ham or Turkey Pepperoni optional
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs for topping
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Melted Butter for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add the uncooked penne pasta.
- Layer the cooked chicken breast over the pasta, and add turkey ham or turkey pepperoni if using.
- In a bowl, mix together marinara sauce, water or chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the pasta and chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and mix well. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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