Description
Quick and effortless dump-and-bake chicken parmesan casserole delivers classic Italian flavors without complicated prep. Cheesy, saucy layers combine perfectly crisp chicken with tender pasta, promising a satisfying meal that brings comfort to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 12 pounds (12–13 pieces) frozen popcorn chicken, thawed
- 1 (24 ounces) jar marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquid and Seasonings:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Breadcrumb Topping and Garnish:
- 4 slices Italian bread
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 400F (204C). Arrange bread slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly mist with cooking spray, and toast for 10 minutes until achieving a golden, crisp texture. Allow bread to cool completely.
- Combine uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, chicken broth, and minced garlic in a large mixing bowl. Thoroughly blend ingredients, then transfer the mixture to a greased 13×9-inch casserole dish, ensuring an even distribution. Seal with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Transform the toasted bread into fine, uniform crumbs. Blend crumbs with melted butter and Italian seasoning, creating a fragrant topping mixture. Set aside for later use.
- Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and gently stir the pasta mixture. Strategically place popcorn chicken pieces throughout the dish, ensuring balanced coverage. Generously sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the surface. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Evenly distribute the prepared breadcrumb mixture across the casserole’s surface. Bake for 5-10 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges become delightfully bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, enabling flavors to meld and settle. Garnish with fresh parsley and basil, then serve and savor the delicious creation.
Notes
- Customize your chicken choice by swapping popcorn chicken with grilled, rotisserie, or leftover chicken for variety and dietary preferences.
- Gluten-free adaptation works perfectly by using gluten-free pasta and bread, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal.
- Reduce sodium levels by selecting low-sodium marinara sauce and chicken broth, making the dish heart-friendly without compromising flavor.
- Amp up vegetable intake by mixing in fresh spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers during the second baking stage for extra nutrition and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 431 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg