Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Introduction

Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan is a simple, no-fuss dish perfect for busy weeknights. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, pasta, and melty cheese for a comforting, family-friendly dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 12-ounce package whole wheat penne pasta
• 1 24-ounce jar pasta sauce
• 2-3 cups water
• 1 pound chicken, cut into small pieces
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Step 2: In the baking dish, combine the uncooked pasta, pasta sauce, water, chicken pieces, and 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper, then stir until everything is evenly mixed and the liquid covers the pasta and chicken.
3. Step 3: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
5. Step 5: Evenly sprinkle the bread crumbs, remaining mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread crumbs turn golden brown.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh basil or Italian seasoning in the sauce for extra flavor.
• Swap whole wheat penne for any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand.
• For a gluten-free version, try gluten-free pasta and bread crumbs.
• Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to increase the veggie content.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Avoid freezing, as the pasta texture may become mushy after thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of cut-up chicken pieces?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into small chunks for even cooking. Ensure the pieces are uniformly sized to cook through in the same time.

Is it necessary to cover the dish with foil while baking?

Covering with foil helps the pasta cook evenly without drying out. Removing the foil later allows the topping to brown nicely.

Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 793 reviews

This Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan is a convenient, all-in-one casserole combining tender chicken, whole wheat penne pasta, savory pasta sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses topped with golden breadcrumbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish requires minimal prep and bakes everything together to juicy, cheesy perfection.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 12-ounce package whole wheat penne pasta
• 1 24-ounce jar pasta sauce
• 2–3 cups water
• 1 pound chicken, cut into small pieces

Cheese and Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided: 1/2 cup and remaining 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup bread crumbs

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the baking dish, dump the uncooked whole wheat penne pasta, pasta sauce, 2 to 3 cups water, raw chicken pieces, and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together ensuring the liquid covers the pasta and chicken completely for even cooking.
3. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to allow the pasta and chicken to cook through gently.
4. Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, checking that the chicken is fully cooked and the pasta is tender.
5. Add Topping and Finish Baking: Evenly sprinkle bread crumbs, the remaining mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and the bread crumbs are golden brown and crispy.

Notes

• Make sure the liquid covers the pasta to ensure it cooks evenly without drying out.
• Use cooked shredded chicken if you want to reduce baking time but adjust liquid accordingly.
• Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor, but regular pasta can be used if preferred.
• For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: chicken parmesan, dump and bake, easy chicken casserole, one dish meal, pasta bake, whole wheat pasta, cheesy chicken bake