Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan

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Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan: A Simple One-Pot Wonder

Ingredients:

• 1 (12 ounce) package whole wheat penne pasta
• 1 (24 ounce) jar pasta sauce
• 2–3 cups water
• 1 pound of chicken, cut into small pieces
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, add the uncooked pasta, pasta sauce, water, chicken pieces, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until everything is well combined and the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
3. Season: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Add additional Italian seasoning or garlic powder for extra flavor, if desired.
4. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pasta is almost tender.
5. Add Toppings: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the dish. Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the cheese.
6. Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread crumbs are golden brown.
7. Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Enjoy your Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan straight from the oven!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or pork instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Add diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into the pasta sauce for added freshness.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Pasta Replacement: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of whole wheat pasta.
• Breadcrumbs Alternative: Replace bread crumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Sauce Selection: Choose a low-carb pasta sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes and herbs.
• Cheese Choices: Opt for full-fat cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Can I use precooked chicken in this recipe? Yes, simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it during assembly.
• How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze individual portions.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Enjoy your convenient and delicious Dump and Bake Chicken Parmesan!