There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. If you’re like me, you cherish those moments when you can whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole comes in! It’s quick, simple, and absolutely packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends.
Why You’ll Love Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rotini pasta: This pasta adds a fun twist to your classic chicken parmesan.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: You can use leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Choose your favorite brand for a burst of flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Because what is a casserole without ooey-gooey cheese?
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that extra savory kick.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For that aromatic touch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for flavoring!
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a lovely touch.
How to Make Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta and chicken mixture.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Substitutions & Additions
If you want to get a little creative, here are some fun substitutions and additions:
- Try using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Substitute the shredded chicken with cooked ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Add some veggies like spinach or bell peppers to the mix for extra nutrition.
- For a kick, toss in some red pepper flakes!
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:
- Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Covering the dish with foil helps retain moisture, so don’t skip this step.
- If you’re prepping ahead, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How to Store Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Leftovers? Yes, please! To store your casserole, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
FAQs
Can I use uncooked pasta in this recipe? No, it’s best to use cooked pasta for this casserole to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Absolutely! Just swap out the chicken for your favorite veggies or beans.
What can I serve with this casserole? A simple green salad or garlic bread would be perfect sides!
For more delicious recipes, check out this easy chicken pot pie casserole or this creamy ground beef potato casserole for treats you will love!
If you love simple and tasty recipes like this, don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more ideas!
Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta and chicken mixture.
- Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Step 6: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Step 8: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
