Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you want to warm up your home with something cozy and fulfilling. That’s where this Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole comes in. It’s not just easy and quick; it’s a recipe that brings back memories of family dinners and laughter around the table. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rotini pasta: This pasta shape holds the sauce and cheese perfectly.
- 2 cups cooked, diced chicken breast: A great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for that authentic Italian flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey goodness that ties everything together.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor that complements the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A quick way to infuse that garlicky goodness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that elevates the flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always adjust to your preference.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A touch of freshness that looks beautiful on the plate.
How to Make Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, diced chicken, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired and enjoy your cozy meal!
Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can swap out the rotini pasta for penne or even zoodles if you are looking for a low-carb option. If you want to add more veggies, throw in some spinach or bell peppers for an extra boost. You could also use different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a unique twist.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Don’t skip the foil covering during the first part of baking; it helps the casserole cook evenly.
- If you are preparing this in advance, you can mix everything and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
How to Store Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
FAQs
- Can I use uncooked chicken? Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
- What can I serve with this casserole? A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and add more vegetables or even some beans for protein.
This Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is not only easy but also a delightful meal that everyone will love. For more delicious recipes, check out the Twix Cookie Cups or the Creamy Tuscan Chicken for treats you will love!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to follow our Pinterest for more delicious ideas and inspiration!
Dump And Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, diced chicken, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Step 6: After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Step 8: Garnish with fresh basil if desired and enjoy your cozy meal!
Notes
