Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) package penne pasta
- 1 (24-ounce) jar pasta sauce
- 2 cups water, plus more as needed
- 1 pound chicken, boneless, skinless, and cut into small pieces
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prep: Preheat the oven to 425°F and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Combine: Dump the penne, pasta sauce, water, chicken, and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese into the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper, then stir to ensure the ingredients are well mixed and covered in liquid. Add more water if necessary to cover the pasta and chicken.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and continue baking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 10 minutes more.
Top and Finish: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs, remaining mozzarella, and parmesan cheese over the bake. Return to the oven until the cheese melts and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown, about 10 minutes. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 5 minutes or until the desired color is achieved.
The Charm of Dump and Bake Recipes
Dump and bake recipes, like this Chicken Parmesan, are a modern miracle for home cooks everywhere, offering a no-fuss approach to homemade meals that doesn’t skimp on taste or comfort. These dishes are particularly appealing because they minimize prep time, reduce cleanup, and still deliver on the promise of a hearty, flavorful meal that feels like it took hours to make. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or when the cooking mood strikes but the energy doesn’t.
Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Parmesan
To round out your meal, consider pairing this delectable Chicken Parmesan with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or a garlic-infused roasted broccoli. For a heartier companion, a crusty loaf of Italian bread or garlic knots can soak up the rich tomato sauce splendidly. Not only do these sides complement the flavors of the Chicken Parmesan, but they also add a nutritional balance to your plate, making it a well-rounded meal.
Making It Your Own
One of the joys of cooking is making a recipe your own, and this Chicken Parmesan dish is no exception. Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes, or for a gluten-free version, substitute regular pasta with a gluten-free variety. Adding a layer of spinach or mushrooms between the pasta and cheese can sneak in some veggies for a more nutritious twist. If you’re a fan of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the sauce can add a pleasant warmth to the dish.
Quick and Easy
This Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the beauty of simplicity in the kitchen. It proves that with just a few quality ingredients and a straightforward method, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe invites you to enjoy the process of making a delicious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings Per Recipe: 4
- Calories: 748
% Daily Value
- Total Fat: 24.3g (31% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 9.7g (49% DV)
- Cholesterol: 81mg (27% DV)
- Sodium: 12474mg (542% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 95.6g (35% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 15.2g (54% DV)
- Total Sugars: 47.4g
- Protein: 39.2g
- Vitamin D: 0mcg (0% DV)
- Calcium: 539mg (41% DV)
- iron: 6mg (33% DV)
- Potassium: 188mg (4% DV)
Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Recipe analyzed by verywell.
