Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines the best of two classic Italian-American favorites: chicken Parmesan and baked pasta. This casserole-style meal is filled with tender pieces of breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and pasta, all topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s the perfect family-friendly dish for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, offering a hearty, flavorful meal in one dish. Easy to prepare and loaded with the rich flavors of marinara and gooey cheese, this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the bake: In the prepared baking dish, mix together the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and cooked chicken. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is a delicious, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, combining the flavors of chicken Parmesan with the ease of a pasta bake!
