The Super Easy Chicken Parmesan & Pasta Casserole is a delectable and comforting dish, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This dish starts with a base of al dente pasta, typically penne or rotini, which provides a hearty and satisfying foundation. The pasta is then layered with tender, breaded chicken cutlets, which have been pan-fried to a golden brown, offering a delightful crunch and rich flavor. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of Italian herbs and spices, enhancing its savory taste.
Over the chicken, generous spoonfuls of rich marinara sauce are spread, enveloping the dish in a vibrant, tomato-based sauce that’s infused with garlic, onions, and more Italian herbs. This sauce adds moisture and a tangy sweetness to the casserole, complementing the chicken and pasta beautifully.
The entire casserole is then liberally sprinkled with a mix of cheeses – typically mozzarella and Parmesan. The mozzarella provides a wonderfully gooey and stretchy texture, while the Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish. As the casserole bakes, the cheese melts and browns, creating a bubbly, golden crust on top that’s irresistible.
Before serving, the casserole is often garnished with fresh basil or parsley, adding a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic finish. This dish is known for its comforting warmth, with each component – the tender pasta, crispy chicken, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese – coming together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that’s sure to please a crowd, encapsulating the essence of classic Italian-American comfort food.
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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees 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 the package directions.
- Place the drained pasta back into the pot and mix 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 and then spread it evenly onto the bottom of your baking dish; sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over top.
- In a small bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs, melted butter and garlic powder; sprinkle it evenly over the top of the mozzarella.
- 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!
