Description
Comfort meets Italian-inspired elegance in this chicken parmesan pasta casserole, blending crispy chicken, melted cheese, and rich marinara. Hearty layers promise a satisfying meal that brings family and friends together around the table with pure culinary delight.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (grilled, rotisserie, or breaded), diced or shredded
Pasta and Cheese:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Sauces and Seasonings:
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping:
- ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm the oven to the precise temperature of 375F (190C), creating an ideal environment for baking. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking vessel with a thin layer of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Immerse pasta in generously salted water, cooking until it reaches a tender yet firm al dente consistency. Carefully drain and set aside, allowing excess moisture to evaporate.
- Integrate the cooked pasta with tender chicken pieces, vibrant marinara sauce, aromatic Italian seasoning, and pungent garlic powder in a spacious mixing bowl. Gently fold in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, ensuring even distribution. Enhance the flavor profile with a delicate balance of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Transfer the harmonious mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface to create an even layer that promises consistent texture in every bite.
- Craft a crispy topping by combining golden breadcrumbs with velvety melted butter and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Delicately scatter this mixture across the casserole’s surface, creating a tantalizing golden crust.
- Position the casserole in the preheated oven, allowing it to bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Watch for telltale signs of perfection: bubbling edges, heated center, and a gloriously bronzed top that hints at crispy deliciousness.
- Once removed from the oven, allow the casserole to rest briefly. For a final flourish, shower with freshly chopped parsley, adding a touch of vibrant color and herbaceous freshness. Serve immediately while still piping hot, inviting diners to savor every comforting morsel.
Notes
- Select tender chicken breasts or thighs for maximum flavor and moisture in the casserole.
- Swap marinara sauce with homemade or low-sodium versions to control salt content and enhance freshness.
- Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish celiac-friendly without compromising taste.
- Toast breadcrumbs briefly before mixing with butter for extra crunch and nutty depth in the topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 330 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg