Chicken Parmesan Bake
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Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta: A New Spin on a Classic
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that’s loved for its crispy breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. But if you’re looking to switch things up, why not try a chicken parmesan bake? This dish takes all the best parts of chicken parmesan and turns it into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for weeknights.
Turning a Classic Chicken Parmesan into a Baked Pasta Dish
Transforming chicken parmesan into a baked pasta dish is like taking comfort food to the next level. Imagine all the flavors of traditional chicken parmesan, but in a format that’s even easier to serve and enjoy. Instead of breading and frying the chicken, which takes some time, you can combine it with UNcooked pasta ( I know right!) marinara sauce, and plenty of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The result? A chicken parmesan baked casserole that’s just as delicious but requires less time and energy.
Use either penne or rigatoni, or something of similar size and shape.. The pasta soaks up the marinara sauce, and when it’s baked, the cheese on top turns golden and bubbly. It’s the perfect blend of textures—soft pasta, tender chicken, and a cheesy crust that’ll make you want to dive right in.
Not to mention, this dish is a great way to feed a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a potluck, a chicken parmesan bake is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Got some extra marinara sauce in the fridge? Toss it in! Leftover pasta? It’s perfect for this dish.
Chicken Parmesan and Garlic Pasta: A Flavor Explosion
If you love garlic, then chicken parmesan garlic pasta can be customized for you. You can add more then garlic then the recipe calls for, and the chopped garlic will infuse thee pasta into a garlicky dream.
Why Chicken Parmesan Baked Casseroles Are a Game-Changer
Casseroles are the unsung heroes of weeknight dinners. They’re easy to prepare, make a ton of food, and are super comforting. A chicken parmesan baked casserole takes all these benefits and adds the irresistible flavors of chicken parmesan. It’s a dish that combines the best of both worlds—comforting pasta and cheesy, saucy chicken.
What Are Dump Meals?
Dump meals are the ultimate in easy, no-fuss cooking. The concept is simple: you "dump" all the ingredients into a single dish, mix them together, and bake or cook them without any extra steps like pre-cooking or sautéing. These meals are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious with minimal prep and cleanup. A chicken parmesan dump and bake is a great example of a dump meal, offering all the flavors you love in one easy-to-make dish, perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something hearty and satisfying. The chicken cooks up tender and juicy, while the pasta absorbs the flavors of the marinara sauce and garlic. And of course, the melted cheese on top is the crowning glory, giving you that classic chicken parmesan flavor without all the work.
A World of Possibilities
The beauty of chicken parmesan baked pasta recipes is that they can be adapted to suit your tastes and what you have on hand. You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of cheese like provolone or Asiago for a unique twist.
Whether you’re making a traditional chicken parmesan bake or experimenting with new flavors, the possibilities are endless. The combination of chicken, pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese is always a winner, no matter how you spin it.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for a chicken parmesan bake?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken for a chicken parmesan baked dish. Just make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the casserole to ensure even cooking.
Q: What’s the best type of pasta to use for chicken parmesan garlic pasta?
A: Any pasta that can hold up to baking works well, such as penne, rigatoni, or ziti. These types of pasta have a sturdy shape that holds the sauce and cheese nicely.
Q: What sides go well with chicken parmesan baked casseroles?
A: A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables are all great choices to serve alongside a chicken parmesan bake.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I use different cheeses in a chicken parmesan bake?
A: Definitely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with provolone, Asiago, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
A chicken parmesan bake is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and versatile enough to suit any taste. Whether you’re whipping up a chicken parmesan garlic pasta for a cozy dinner at home or preparing a chicken parmesan baked casserole for a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So, next time you’re craving something hearty and delicious, give a chicken parmesan bake a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Chicken Parmesan Bake
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Spray a 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In the prepared baking dish, add uncooked pasta, raw chicken, marinara sauce, water, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix to combine.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Make sure that your dish is covered tightly so that none of the moisture escapes (the pasta needs to absorb the liquid as it cooks). Bake the covered dish for 35-40 minutes. Don't peek because it will cool the oven and take a lot longer to cook.
- At this point, the pasta will still be firm, and there will still be quite a bit of liquid in the dish.
- Spread mozzarella over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 10-15 more minutes or until the cheese is melted and the pasta is tender. If the pasta is still not cooked through, see the notes below.
Notes
Pick a high-quality, flavorful marinara sauce. A delicious sauce will yield a better-tasting dish. I use Rao’s brand.
Total cooking time will vary depending on the type of pan that you use, the pasta you use, and your oven. Glass or ceramic baking dishes will take longer than metal pans, for instance. To know when your casserole is done, taste a bite of the pasta. The noodles should be al dente and much of the liquid should be absorbed.
Noodles are undercooked: All ovens are different, so after the allotted cooking time if your pasta is still firm and not cooked thoroughly, see below:
- If there is still liquid, cover the casserole and place it back in the oven for 10 more minutes.
- If there is no more liquid, add 1/2 cup of hot water, cover tightly, and return to the oven for 15 minutes.
- If possible, shred your own cheese; it melts better and is creamier than pre-shredded cheese. But Be careful not to overbake the casserole or the pasta will become mushy.
Storage: This casserole is best enjoyed immediately from the oven.
Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The pasta will dry out a bit as it sits, add a little water and salt before reheating.
I do not recommend freezing this casserole because pasta has a tendency to get gummy and mushy when thawed.
Stir in some veggies, like peas, zucchini, sliced mushrooms, or frozen broccoli, If you’re using a larger vegetable with a longer cooking time (like broccoli), you may want to steam the vegetables first before adding to the dish.
Nutrition varies based on the ingredients used.