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Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal that's quick to prepare, surprisingly healthy, and perfect for busy weeknights. It features tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all blanketed in melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta & Cheese:
  • 1 lb pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Large Skillet
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  6. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and tomato sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
  7. Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Dot with ricotta cheese and sprinkle with half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
  8. Layer the Casserole: Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
  9. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.

Notes

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole marries cherished memories with the convenience of a modern, one-dish meal.