Ultimate Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan

This kid-friendly chicken dish is perfect for busy weeknights and makes amazing leftovers! With minimal prep and just one pan to clean, it’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta.
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce.
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.

Scroll to the bottom of the post for the full recipe card. Make sure to save your copy by entering your email address!

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the pasta, marinara sauce, water, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken, top with mozzarella, and finish with breadcrumbs.

Bake at 425°F covered for 35 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Tips for Making the Best Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan:

  • Use the right pasta: Penne and rotini work best because they hold the sauce well and cook evenly.
  • Don’t skip the foil: Covering the dish ensures the pasta cooks properly without drying out.
  • Crispy topping tip: For an extra crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking (keep a close eye on it to prevent burning).
  • Make it your own: Add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition.

How to Store and Reheat

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Place the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This dump-and-bake chicken parmesan is versatile and pairs well with:

  • Garlic bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
  • Green salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the rich casserole.
  • Steamed vegetables: Try broccoli or green beans as a healthy side dish.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Families

This ultimate dump-and-bake chicken parmesan is a lifesaver for busy parents because it’s:

  • Quick to prep: Only 15 minutes of prep time!
  • One-pan magic: Everything cooks together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Kid-approved: The cheesy, crispy topping is always a hit with kids.
  • Perfect for leftovers: It tastes just as good (if not better) the next day.

Let’s Hear from You!

What’s your favorite dump-and-bake recipe? Have you tried adding any twists to this chicken parmesan? Let us know in the comments or share your favorite variation!

Ultimate Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan

Kid-friendly chicken dish that's perfect for leftovers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 8
Calories 421 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta penne or rotini are perfect
  • 1 jar 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 2 cups water adjusted from 3 cups to balance the casserole’s consistency
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs regular or Italian-seasoned
  • Optional garnish: Chopped fresh parsley or basil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy cleanup.
  • In the dish, mix together the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and Italian seasoning until the pasta is well coated. (Note: The water has been reduced from the original 3 cups to 2 cups for a better balance of moisture.)
  • Arrange the chicken pieces evenly over the pasta mixture. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top, followed by a layer of breadcrumbs for that crispy texture.
  • Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
  • Carefully remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden.
  • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and enjoy your one-pan dinner!
Keyword chicken, dump and bake, easy meals, family dinner

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating