Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan with the ease of a baked pasta dish. With layers of tender chicken, marinara sauce, melty mozzarella, and crispy breadcrumbs over perfectly cooked pasta, this casserole is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or a crowd. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s cheesy, flavorful, and irresistibly good.

ingredients

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

cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
marinara sauce
mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Italian seasoning
garlic powder
salt and pepper
panko breadcrumbs
olive oil
fresh basil (optional for garnish)

directions

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

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix everything together until well coated and pour into the prepared baking dish.

Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil until evenly coated, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
Swap marinara sauce for spicy arrabbiata for added heat.
Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.
Try provolone or fontina cheese for a flavor twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.
To reheat the entire casserole, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes.
Freeze unbaked casserole tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before baking.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked pasta?

No, the pasta should be cooked al dente before mixing it into the casserole.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best chicken to use?

Cooked, shredded rotisserie or grilled chicken works best for convenience and flavor.

Can I make this spicy?

Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara sauce.

Can I use fresh mozzarella?

Yes, just slice or tear it into small pieces for even melting.

Do I need to cover the casserole while baking?

No, bake uncovered to achieve a golden, crispy top.

Can I skip the breadcrumbs?

Yes, but they add a nice crunch. You can substitute crushed crackers or omit entirely.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, both baked and unbaked versions freeze well.

How do I avoid dry pasta?

Be sure to use enough marinara sauce to coat the pasta generously.

Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely, feel free to load it up if you’re a cheese lover.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that brings together all the best parts of a beloved classic in one delicious bake. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, it’s a satisfying crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.