Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole combines everything you love about the classic Italian dish—crispy chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese—with tender pasta in one easy-to-make baked dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this comforting casserole is hearty, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)breaded chicken tenders or cooked chicken breastsmarinara or pasta sauceshredded mozzarella cheeseshredded parmesan cheeseItalian seasoningsaltblack pepperolive oilfresh basil (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

If using uncooked chicken tenders, bake or air fry until golden and fully cooked. If using cooked chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with marinara sauce, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.

Transfer half the pasta mixture to the baking dish, layer the chicken evenly over it, then top with the remaining pasta.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan over the top.

Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the cheese layer and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for a golden, crispy top if desired.

Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25–28 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
Add cooked vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Swap marinara for spicy arrabbiata or creamy tomato sauce for a flavor twist.
Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until hot.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, just cook them according to package instructions before adding to the casserole.

What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, ziti, or rigatoni holds sauce well and bakes evenly.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I need to cover the casserole while baking?
No, bake uncovered to get that cheesy, golden top.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! It’s cheesy, saucy, and full of familiar flavors kids love.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Yes, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and a little parmesan, then sprinkle on top before baking for extra crunch.

What cheese can I use besides mozzarella?
Provolone or fontina melt beautifully and add a flavorful twist.

How do I prevent dry pasta?
Use enough sauce and avoid overbaking. Cover with foil if reheating to retain moisture.

Can I use grilled chicken instead?
Yes, it’s a lighter option that still adds great flavor.

What sides go well with this casserole?
Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole is a deliciously easy, all-in-one dish that delivers the classic comfort of chicken parm with the ease of a weeknight bake. With melty cheese, flavorful sauce, and hearty pasta, it’s a guaranteed family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.