One Pot Chicken Parmesan Casserole: The Ultimate 30-Minute Meal

Craving a hearty Italian meal without the mess? Look no further! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that’s about to become your new go-to for quick family dinners: One Pot Chicken Parmesan Casserole. This easy pasta recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, delivering all the flavors you love in just 30 minutes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and al dente noodles. Plus, it’s made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinner ideas.
• One pot wonder: Less cleanup and a streamlined cooking process.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep it in advance for a stress-free dinner.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole recipe:

• 16 oz egg noodles
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 3 cups water
• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious One Pot Chicken Parmesan Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare a 9 x 13 baking dish.
3. Add the chicken to a medium-sized bowl and top with breadcrumbs. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the noodles, marinara sauce, and water. Mix well.
5. Spread the noodle mixture evenly into the prepared 9 x 13 baking dish. Top with the breadcrumb-coated chicken.
6. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and stir the mixture well. Top with the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Optional: Turn the broiler on HIGH and carefully watch as the cheese browns. This step adds a nice golden crust to the top!
10. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Use high-quality ingredients: While marinara sauce is convenient, feel free to use homemade tomato sauce if you have it on hand.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the noodles and sauce just until combined to avoid mushy noodles.
• Add some crunch: If you want an extra crispy topping, sprinkle a little extra Italian breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before baking.
• Make it your own: Add some diced veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

How to Serve

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also delicious served with a side salad or garlic bread. For a quick and easy side, try making my Creamy Pasta with Spinach Sauce or a simple green salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep or making ahead. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Freeze: Assemble the casserole (without baking) and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

And there you have it—One Pot Chicken Parmesan Casserole that’s quick, easy, and delicious! It’s perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a family favorite. Let me know in the comments how you customize it to make it your own. Happy cooking!