Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is a perfect combination of two comfort food favorites—crispy, breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, all baked together with pasta for a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor. This casserole-style meal offers the rich flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan, but with the added indulgence of baked pasta, making it even more filling and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you crave a delicious, cheesy meal.

This easy-to-make recipe layers tender chicken, tangy marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and savory Parmesan cheese, all on top of a bed of pasta. It’s baked until golden and bubbling, creating a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake will surely become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

• Comforting and Hearty: This dish combines the comfort of crispy chicken, marinara sauce, melted cheese, and pasta, creating a filling and satisfying meal. It’s the kind of food that makes you feel cozy and content.
• Crispy and Cheesy: The crispy chicken provides a nice crunch, while the melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses offer a rich and gooey texture that complements the pasta perfectly.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and just a few steps, Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is simple enough for novice cooks while still impressing even the most experienced chefs. The ingredients are basic and easy to find, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish.
• Versatile: This dish is easy to customize based on your tastes. You can add extra vegetables, change up the type of pasta, or even use different cheeses to suit your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready to eat. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a gathering and want to spend more time socializing.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-600 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake:

• 2 lbs (900g) chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your preferred type)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes (for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. To ensure even cooking and tender chicken, slice each breast horizontally into two thinner pieces. This will also help the breading adhere better. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for added flavor.

Next, bread the chicken. Set up a breading station by placing the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning in a third dish. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, dip it into the eggs, and then coat it with the seasoned breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken to ensure an even coating.

2. Fry the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken pieces and cook them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. You don’t need to cook the chicken all the way through at this point, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

3. Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is frying, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

4. Assemble the Pasta Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, cut it into bite-sized pieces.

Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with the cooked pasta. Pour half of the marinara sauce over the pasta, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add the sliced, cooked chicken on top of the cheese layer. Then, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to ensure the dish heats through and the cheeses begin to melt. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. The sauce should be bubbling at the edges, and the chicken should be fully cooked through.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an added touch of heat if desired.

Serve the pasta bake hot with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For the crispiest coating, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They create a lighter, crunchier crust that holds up better during baking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken in the Skillet: When frying the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This ensures each piece gets a golden, crispy coating. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, be sure to cook it just until al dente. This prevents it from becoming too soft or mushy once baked.
• Let the Dish Rest Before Serving: After baking, let the Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes it easier to serve.
• Make Ahead: If you’re preparing this dish in advance, assemble the pasta bake up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold from the refrigerator.

Variations of Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

• Vegetarian Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake: Substitute the chicken with eggplant or zucchini slices that have been breaded and fried. This creates a hearty vegetarian version of the dish that still offers a satisfying texture and flavor.
• Spicy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle some on top before baking to introduce some heat to the dish. You can also use a spicy marinara sauce or add a diced jalapeño to the pasta for extra spice.
• Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake: For an extra cheesy version, add a layer of ricotta cheese between the pasta and the chicken. This will make the dish even creamier and cheesier.
• Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake with Veggies: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the pasta bake. These vegetables not only add nutrition but also bring additional flavors and textures to the dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is great for leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, you can microwave individual servings or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta bake. Let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, or reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

While the Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is hearty and filling on its own, serving it with complementary side dishes can elevate the meal:

• Garlic Bread: A classic side to serve with any pasta dish, garlic bread complements the cheesy, tomato-heavy flavors of the pasta bake.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the richness of the pasta bake. You can add ingredients like arugula, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make a great side that balances the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: A light and nutritious side of steamed broccoli offers a healthy addition to this indulgent meal.

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Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish that combines the best elements of Chicken Parmesan and baked pasta. With its layers of crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s easy to prepare, customize to your tastes, and perfect for serving at family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Whether you’re serving it with garlic bread and a side salad or simply enjoying it on its own, this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Follow the tips and variations to make it your own, and enjoy this crowd-pleasing comfort food at home.