Imagine a weeknight where time is short, but your craving for something comforting and incredibly flavorful is sky-high. That’s where Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole comes in. This dish is the perfect blend of quick and easy, surprisingly healthy, and bursting with the classic flavors of chicken parmesan – all baked into a comforting casserole. It’s my go-to when I need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I know you’ll love it as much as I do!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
My grandmother used to make the most incredible chicken parmesan, but it was always a weekend affair – all that breading and frying! When I went off to college, I missed that taste of home. I started experimenting, trying to capture the essence of her dish in a simpler, weeknight-friendly form. That’s how this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole was born. It’s a little bit of Grandma’s love, transformed for modern life.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce:
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain well.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, basil, and egg. Mix well.
- Gently fold in the cooked chicken.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs (if using).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Best Results
To prevent your casserole from being watery, make sure to drain the pasta exceptionally well after cooking. Soggy pasta contributes to a less desirable texture. Similarly, ensure that the ricotta cheese is not overly wet; draining it through a cheesecloth can help. For added flavor, consider adding a small amount of red pepper flakes to the chicken while cooking for a subtle kick. Taste the marinara sauce before adding it; if it’s too acidic, a pinch of sugar can balance the flavors. Finally, don’t overbake the casserole. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly, but not browned to the point where it becomes hard or crusty. A timer is your best friend here.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole is a satisfying meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A crisp Caesar salad or a simple green salad with a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Toasted garlic bread is another classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a heartier meal, you could serve it alongside roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini. A glass of Chianti or another light-bodied red wine complements the flavors of the chicken parmesan nicely. Ultimately, choose sides that balance the richness of the casserole and cater to your personal preferences.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey back to comforting flavors, reimagined for a busy lifestyle. It offers the quintessential taste of chicken parmesan without all the fuss, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing dish. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce is a guaranteed hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of effortless comfort food. This recipe is a testament to the fact that great taste doesn’t have to equal hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and discover your new go-to casserole!
Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain well.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, basil, and egg. Mix well.
- Gently fold in the cooked chicken.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs (if using).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
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