If you have a soft spot for hearty Italian classics, you will absolutely fall in love with this Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Penne Pasta Recipe. It’s a beautiful, baked comfort food that layers crispy chicken cutlets with tender penne pasta, tangy marinara sauce, and bubbly melted cheese, creating a cozy, flavorful meal everyone at the table will ask for again and again. This dish takes all the best parts of traditional chicken Parmesan and brings them together in a one-dish casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings alike.

Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Penne Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the ingredient list fool you—this recipe relies on simple, classic components that come together effortlessly to deliver a stunning medley of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the crispy panko coating that adds crunch to the creamy mozzarella which melts to perfection, making this dish truly unforgettable.

Boneless, skinless chicken breast halves: These provide the tender protein base, perfect for breading and baking.
All-purpose flour: A light coating to help the eggs and breadcrumbs adhere for a golden crust.
Salt, ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning: Essential seasonings to infuse the chicken with classic Italian flavors.
Large eggs: Act as a sticky binder for the breading station.
Panko bread crumbs: Create that irresistible crunchy texture on the chicken’s exterior.
Parmesan cheese, grated and divided: Adds nutty, savory richness both in the breading and the pasta layers.
Oil: Used for pan-frying the chicken to a crispy, golden perfection.
Penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to soak up marinara sauce and hold onto cheesy goodness.
Marinara sauce: A flavorful tomato base that ties the casserole together.
Low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully for creamy, gooey layers.
Fresh basil (optional): For a bright, fresh herbal touch as a garnish.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): To add a gentle kick for spice lovers.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Penne Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breading Station

Pat your chicken breasts dry to help the coatings stick beautifully. Set up three shallow dishes—one with a mixture of flour, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, another with beaten eggs, and the last combining panko breadcrumbs with half of the Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour blend, then in the eggs, and finally coat generously with the breadcrumb mixture. This layered breading guarantees a crispy and flavorful crust once cooked.

Step 2: Pan-Fry the Chicken Until Golden

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until they are perfectly golden brown and crispy. This sealing step locks in moisture and flavor. Once done, allow the chicken to cool a bit before cutting into bite-sized cubes ready to add to the casserole layers.

Step 3: Cook and Prepare the Pasta

While the chicken cools, boil your penne pasta in salted water until al dente, following the package instructions closely. Drain the pasta and transfer it into a large mixing bowl, where it will soon meet its delicious marinara and cheese companions.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce and Cheese

Pour the jarred marinara sauce over the warm pasta and stir until every piece is nicely coated. Then add in one cup of shredded mozzarella and a third of the Parmesan cheese, mixing gently to distribute the creamy, cheesy goodness evenly throughout the noodles. This mix forms a luscious base for the casserole.

Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole Layers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Start by layering half of the cheesy pasta mixture, followed by half of the cubed chicken and half of the remaining mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers with the rest of the pasta, chicken, and cheese, building a rich, mouthwatering casserole ready for baking.

Step 6: Bake Covered for Melty Perfection

Cover your casserole dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. This heat melts the cheese into a bubbly, golden crown and ensures the chicken is cooked through perfectly. The result is a dish bursting with layers of flavor and comforting textures.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the foil and sprinkle fresh basil leaves and crushed red pepper flakes over the top if you like a fresh herbal note and a hint of spice. Serve this warm and watch it disappear fast—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Penne Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh basil leaves right before serving brings a fragrant pop of green and an herbal brightness that complements the rich, cheesy casserole beautifully. If you enjoy a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes are the perfect way to awaken your palate without overpowering the dish’s balanced flavors.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread. The freshness and crunch of salad greens provide a refreshing contrast while buttery, toasted garlic bread lets you scoop up any leftover sauce and cheese on your plate. Both sides keep your meal well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve this casserole straight from the baking dish for a warm, rustic feel. Hosting guests? Plate individual servings alongside a drizzle of extra marinara and a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs for a charming, restaurant-style presentation that will impress every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Penne Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a convenient, comforting lunch or dinner option when you want to enjoy the same delicious meal without extra effort.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully! After assembling but before baking, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen (adding extra baking time) for an effortless homemade meal anytime you want it.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through and the cheese bubbles enticingly again. Adding a little extra mozzarella on top during reheating keeps things gooey and fresh-tasting.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of penne?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding onto sauce, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or even rotini work beautifully in this casserole without compromising texture or flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives and using gluten-free pasta, you can enjoy this Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Penne Pasta Recipe without any gluten worries.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. You can prep the entire casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an excellent dish for busy weekday dinners or entertaining guests.

What’s the best cheese to use for this recipe?

Mozzarella shines for its melting qualities, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor. Using low-moisture mozzarella ensures the casserole isn’t too watery, making these cheeses the perfect duo for this dish.

Can I make the chicken vegetarian?

If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with breaded eggplant or mushrooms. These soak up the marinara and cheese beautifully and provide satisfying texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a bubbling, cheesy Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Penne Pasta Recipe that turns any day into a celebration of comfort food. With its crispy chicken, tender pasta, and rich sauce, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try, and you’ll soon see why it’s become a beloved favorite in so many kitchens.