Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole combines all the beloved flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan—crispy chicken, tangy marinara, gooey mozzarella, and savory Parmesan—into one easy-to-make, family-friendly baked pasta dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this hearty casserole is comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.

ingredients

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

cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
cooked chicken breast or breaded chicken tenders
marinara sauce
mozzarella cheeseshredded
Parmesan cheesegrated
Italian seasoning
garlic powder
olive oil
fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

directions

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

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.

Cut cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.

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

Stir in the chicken pieces and mix well.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Drizzle lightly with olive oil to help the top crisp up during baking.

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

Let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped fresh basil, if using.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Use spicy marinara or add red pepper flakes for a kick.
Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and breaded chicken.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
You can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?

It’s best to use pre-cooked chicken to ensure the casserole bakes evenly and safely.

Can I make this ahead of time?

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

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses also works well.

How do I make it crispier on top?

Broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Can I add breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! Sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil on top before baking for added crunch.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, offering all the flavor of Chicken Parmesan with the ease of a baked pasta dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy any craving for Italian-inspired comfort.