Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces rotini or penne; 24 ounces marinara sauce or pasta sauce (divided); 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 14 1/2 ounces canned diced tomatoes (well drained (optional)); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 1/3 cup Panko bread crumbs; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Introduction to Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, rich pasta sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s a comforting meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends, this recipe is not only simple to make but also delivers big on flavor!

A Personal Story Behind My Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake Journey

Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table every Sunday for a big meal. One of my favorite dishes was a cheesy pasta bake that my grandmother would whip up effortlessly. The aroma that filled the house was simply irresistible. Inspired by those cherished memories, I created this Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake. It’s a dish that reminds me of family gatherings and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

What Makes This Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out because it combines the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a pasta bake. You get the best of both worlds: the tender chicken, zesty tomato sauce, and the creamy, melted cheese all in one dish. It’s also versatile—perfect for using up leftover chicken or for meal prepping! Plus, the crispy Panko topping adds an extra crunch that elevates the entire dish.

The Full Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake Recipe

Ingredients

8 ounces rotini or penne
24 ounces marinara sauce or pasta sauce, divided
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
14 1/2 ounces canned diced tomatoes, well drained (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Topping:

2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/3 cup Panko bread crumbs
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even bake.
In a small bowl, mix together the topping ingredients: melted butter, Panko bread crumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Set this mixture aside; it will add a delightful crunch!

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This is important, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with 2 cups of your favorite pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, and parsley. This combination creates a flavorful base.

Transfer the pasta mixture into a 9×9-inch dish or a 2-quart casserole dish. Pour any remaining pasta sauce over the top, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the dish, and then add the prepared topping mixture on top. This will give the bake a beautiful golden crust.
Bake in the oven for 23-25 minutes, or until the dish is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking!

For a crispy topping, consider broiling the dish for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Just watch it closely to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

This Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the pasta mixture for added nutrition. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile!

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the pasta bake, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.

What type of pasta works best? Any pasta works for this dish, but penne or rotini are great choices as they hold the sauce well. Just be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken? Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the dish. Just shred it and mix it in as directed.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 6