Get ready to fall in love with comfort food all over again with this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Baked with Penne Pasta Recipe! Imagine all the irresistible flavors of classic chicken parmesan, but layered into a bubbly, cheese-crowned casserole that’s ridiculously easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy date night at home, this dish brings together tender chicken, marinara, al dente pasta, and a golden breadcrumb crust for a meal that feels both familiar and totally special. If you need a foolproof crowd-pleaser, you’ve just found your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Parmesan Casserole Baked with Penne Pasta Recipe uses staple ingredients you probably already have on hand, each one playing a key role in the dish’s flavor, texture, and color. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- 12 ounces penne pasta: Holds the sauce perfectly and gives every bite that classic pasta texture.
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed): Adds hearty protein and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: The soul of the casserole, bringing tangy, robust tomato flavor throughout.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a salty, nutty punch and that authentic Parmesan goodness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for those iconic cheesy pulls and a creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Gives the top layer a crave-worthy golden crunch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Ensures the breadcrumbs brown evenly and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties together all the classic Italian flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle, savory depth to every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional): Brings a pop of freshness and vibrant color to the finished dish.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole Baked with Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Prep the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente—just tender but still with a bite. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. Don’t let it overcook; you want it to hold up nicely when baked in the casserole.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, shredded or cubed chicken, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s evenly coated in that savory, tomatoey goodness. This base is where all that hearty flavor really starts coming together.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick coating of nonstick spray or a light brush of olive oil. Pour in your pasta and chicken mixture and smooth it out with a spatula, making sure it’s spread evenly from edge to edge. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella across the top for that cheesy layer everyone loves.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the seasoned breadcrumbs and olive oil until all the crumbs glisten. Evenly scatter this breadcrumb mixture over the cheese-topped casserole. This is the secret to that gorgeous golden crust you’ll be oh-so proud of.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven at 375°F. Bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling exuberantly around the edges and the top is spot-on golden and crisp. Let it rest out of the oven for about 5 minutes—this makes it easier to serve and gives those flavors time to mingle.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole Baked with Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Just before serving, sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped basil over the top. That touch of green brings a lovely fresh note and looks beautiful against the blanket of melted cheese—trust me, your friends and family will swoon.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs perfectly with a bright green salad tossed with balsamic vinaigrette, roasted broccoli, or even garlic bread for dipping into any saucy bits left behind. It’s comfort food at its best, rounded out with simple, fresh accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or just to shake up weeknight routine, try serving the Chicken Parmesan Casserole Baked with Penne Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins. Garnish each with a basil leaf, and for extra points, drizzle with a bit of good olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen and mingle even more over time, making this dish irresistible as a next-day lunch.
Freezing
This casserole is a meal-prepper’s dream. To freeze, let the baked (or assembled but unbaked) casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers uncovered in a 350°F oven until heated through and the topping is crispy again (about 15-20 minutes). In a pinch, microwave individual portions, but try to finish with a few minutes under the broiler for that signature crunchy top.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken in the Chicken Parmesan Casserole Baked with Penne Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a real time-saver and works beautifully here—just shred or cube it and stir right in with the pasta and sauce.
What other types of pasta can I use?
Short shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli all work well. Just aim for something sturdy that holds onto the sauce, and cook until al dente for the best texture in the final bake.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle them on top with the breadcrumb mixture before baking. You can also use a spicy arrabbiata sauce as your base.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, chopped bell peppers, or mushrooms are delicious additions. Just cook them first to release excess moisture, then mix right in with the pasta and chicken before assembling.
Is it possible to prepare Chicken Parmesan Casserole Baked with Penne Pasta Recipe in advance?
Yes! Assemble the dish entirely up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time until it’s fully heated through and bubbly.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving something that’s hearty, cheesy, and wonderfully simple to whip up, this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Baked with Penne Pasta Recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s a dish meant to be shared, savored, and enjoyed by everyone at the table. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Casserole Baked with Penne Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and flavorful Chicken Parmesan Casserole baked with penne pasta. This easy-to-make dish is a perfect choice for a delicious family dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked al dente
Chicken Mixture:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook Pasta: Cook penne pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix pasta, chicken, marinara sauce, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Put the mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheeses.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Combine breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil if desired.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
- You can use any short pasta if penne is unavailable.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat or sautéed spinach for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
