Name: Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts, diced into bite-size cubes; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 16 oz rigatoni pasta, uncooked; 24 oz marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade); 3 cups water; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, hearty pasta, and melted cheese in one easy bake. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this casserole delivers classic Italian flavors without the fuss. Let’s walk through a simple recipe that everyone will love.

A white rectangular baking dish filled with baked pasta casserole. The top layer is golden and bubbly melted cheese with some crispy light brown breadcrumb bits scattered across. Small pieces of red tomato sauce peek through the cheese. There are fresh green basil leaves sprinkled on the surface. A silver spoon is lifting a portion from the corner, showing layers beneath the cheese: tubular pasta covered in red tomato sauce mixed with melted cheese and herbs. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ lb chicken breasts, skinless and boneless, diced into bite-size cubes

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp oregano

16 oz rigatoni pasta, uncooked

24 oz jar marinara sauce

3 cups water

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

2 cups shredded mozzarella

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil. In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and oregano. Mix well and let sit for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Spread the uncooked rigatoni pasta evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Pour the marinara sauce and water over the pasta.

Step 4: Add the seasoned chicken, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes. The pasta may not be fully cooked at this point, which is okay.

Step 6: Remove the foil. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole.

Step 7: Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the pasta is fully cooked.

Step 8: Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a plant-based version, substitute chicken with tofu and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, combine dried basil, rosemary, and thyme in equal parts for a homemade blend.

Try using penne or ziti pasta instead of rigatoni for a different texture.

Panko breadcrumbs create a crunchy topping, but regular breadcrumbs or keto-friendly options also work well.

Use Provolone or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead or even the night before. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to baking time if cold from the fridge.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh salads like Caesar or arugula, roasted vegetables, or garlic mushrooms for a well-rounded meal.