Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a fantastic choice for busy weeknight dinners. It’s quick to make, requires minimal effort, and combines the beloved flavors of chicken parmesan into an easy-to-prepare dish. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken!

How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Ingredients

1½ cups uncooked rotini pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
2 cups marinara sauce
1¼ cups water or chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup turkey ham or turkey pepperoni (optional, for added flavor)
½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for topping)

Directions

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish—no need to grease it.
Layer It All In: Start by pouring the uncooked rotini pasta into the baking dish. Don’t worry—it cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all that flavor while baking.
Add the Chicken: Scatter the cooked chicken over the pasta. Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here. If you’ve got some turkey ham or turkey pepperoni, this is a great moment to toss that in too for some savory depth.
Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl (or right in the baking dish if you like fewer dishes), mix the marinara sauce with the water or broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour it evenly over the pasta and chicken.
Cheese, Please: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. You want some of that melty cheese mixed in and some resting on top for that beautiful golden finish.
Add the Crunch: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle this over the casserole to give it a crispy, golden topping that mimics the crust of classic Chicken Parmesan.
Bake and Relax: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover it and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Let it rest for about 5 minutes before digging in. This helps the casserole set a bit and makes serving easier.

How to Serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Serve this casserole hot from the oven for the best flavor. You can pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread on the side to complete the meal. It also makes for great leftovers!

How to Store Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Use a variety of pasta shapes if you don’t have rotini on hand; just adjust the cooking time if needed.
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost the nutrition.

Variation

You can switch things up by using different meats, such as ground beef or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Change the cheeses depending on your preference—provolone or cheddar can also work well!

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use uncooked chicken breasts; just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the top is golden and bubbly, and the pasta is tender. Check to see if the pasta is cooked through if you are unsure.