Why Make This Recipe
Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole With Pasta is a perfect dish for families and busy weeknights. It combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with pasta, making it a comforting and filling meal. Not only is it simple to put together, but it also uses ingredients you may already have at home. This casserole is sure to please everyone at the dinner table!
How to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole With Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 small rotisserie chicken (pulled into small pieces)
- 1/2 lb pasta (about 3 cups dry)
- 1 (24oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350° F and grease a medium size baking dish (I used a 7×9 dish).
- In a large pan or pot, cook and drain the pasta according to the package directions.
- Place the drained pasta back into the pot and mix it with the marinara sauce, chicken, HALF of the mozzarella, HALF of the parmesan, and 1-2 tsp of Italian seasoning.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes over medium-low heat. Then, spread it evenly onto the bottom of your baking dish; sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top.
- In a small bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered on the center rack for about 15 minutes or until the panko crust turns golden brown.
- Serve alone or with salad, veggies, and/or breadsticks. Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole With Pasta
You can serve the casserole hot from the oven. It pairs nicely with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crunchy breadsticks. This dish is great as a main course, and everyone can help themselves.
How to Store Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole With Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool to room temperature first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to about 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole With Pasta
- For added flavor, feel free to sprinkle some extra Italian seasoning into the pasta mix.
- You can use different pasta shapes, like penne or rotini, for a fun texture.
- If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
Variation
You can switch up the proteins by using cooked turkey or even ground beef. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses like cheddar or provolone.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have panko bread crumbs?
Regular bread crumbs will work as a substitute, but panko gives a nice crispy texture!
Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole With Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 small small rotisserie chicken, pulled into small pieces
- 0.5 lb pasta (about 3 cups dry) Use any pasta shape such as penne or rotini.
- 24 oz jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan
Topping Ingredients
- 0.75 cup panko bread crumbs Regular bread crumbs can be used as a substitute.
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Add more for extra flavor.
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a medium size baking dish (such as 7x9).
- In a large pan or pot, cook and drain the pasta according to the package directions.
- Place the drained pasta back into the pot and mix it with the marinara sauce, chicken, HALF of the mozzarella, HALF of the parmesan, and 1-2 tsp of Italian seasoning.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes over medium-low heat.
Assembly
- Spread the mixture evenly onto the bottom of your baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top.
- In a small bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
Baking
- Bake uncovered on the center rack for about 15 minutes or until the panko crust turns golden brown.
- Serve hot with salad, veggies, or breadsticks.
