This Chicken Parmesan & Pasta Casserole is a warm, cheesy dish that brings comfort to any table! It combines tender chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and hearty pasta, all baked to perfection.
I love how everything cooks together, making it an easy one-pan wonder. Plus, the melted cheese on top is just irresistible. Ready to make your family smile? 😃
This casserole is so simple to whip up, too. Just mix ingredients, pour, and bake. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight—who doesn’t love a casserole that does the hard work for you?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini is great for holding onto the sauce, but you can swap it for any pasta you have on hand, like penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since different shapes may vary.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease. If you need a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of mushrooms and some beans for protein or a store-bought meat substitute.
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara sauce makes a big difference! If you’re short on time, jarred sauces are fine, or you can make a quick homemade one using canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is key for that stretch, but feel free to replace it with provolone or even a dairy-free cheese if needed. For the Parmesan, you can use pecorino for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a fantastic crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but they won’t be quite as crispy. You can season plain breadcrumbs with some Italian herbs.
How Can You Ensure the Perfect Baked Casserole?
A baked casserole needs some attention to get just right. First, controlling the oven temperature is essential for even cooking. Preheat your oven thoroughly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Mix the chicken, pasta, and sauce thoroughly to ensure even coverage. This helps avoid dry spots.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly, which creates a lovely crisp layer. Using olive oil on the panko mixes adds extra flavor and crunch!
- Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. You want it golden brown, so check a few minutes early to prevent burning.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan & Pasta Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
- 1 cup Italian-style panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at around 40 minutes in total to enjoy this tasty casserole!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your casserole when you’re done prepping.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Next, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together gently until it’s well mixed. This is going to be the heart of your casserole!
4. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly so all those flavors blend nicely while cooking.
5. Make the Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, remaining mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is coated well in oil to get that nice crispy topping.
6. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious and crunchy top layer as it bakes!
7. Bake It:
Now, bake your casserole in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden brown and crispy and the casserole is heated through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Final Touches:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top to add a pop of color and freshness!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your warm Chicken Parmesan & Pasta Casserole and enjoy every bite of this comforting dish! It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this casserole. Just shred the meat and mix it with the other ingredients. It’s a great time-saver and adds excellent flavor to the dish!
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No problem! If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can be used instead, but the topping might not be as crispy. For an extra crunch, consider mixing in some crushed crackers or cornflakes!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance! Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for an extra 5-10 minutes since it will be cold from the refrigerator.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option, stirring halfway for even heating!
