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Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake with Mozzarella

A close-up shot of a bowl of Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake with Mozzarella, showing gooey cheese pull.
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A comforting and hearty Chicken Parmesan Casserole with penne pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut lengthwise
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (divided)
  • 4 tablespoons oil
  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 (23-ounce) jar marinara sauce
  • 2 cups low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
  • Fresh basil (optional garnish)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry. Set up breading station: dish 1 with flour, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning; dish 2 with beaten eggs; dish 3 with panko and half the Parmesan.
  2. Dredge chicken in flour, then eggs, then breadcrumb mixture.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and cut into cubes.
  4. Boil salted water and cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
  5. Add marinara sauce, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1/3 cup Parmesan to the pasta. Stir to combine.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  7. Layer half the pasta mixture, half the chicken, and half a cup of mozzarella in the dish. Repeat layers.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and chicken is cooked.
  9. Garnish with basil and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use rigatoni or ziti if penne is unavailable.
  • Increase red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Use part-skim mozzarella and less oil to reduce calories.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake, Mozzarella Pasta Bake, Chicken Casserole, Italian Pasta Bake, Easy Chicken Dinner, Family Dinner Recipe

Find it online: https://www.meltitclean.com/chicken-parmesan-pasta-bake-mozzarella/