Description of this recipe
This Shortcut Chicken Parmesan Bake is a comforting and satisfying meal that brings the classic flavors of chicken parmesan to your table with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Utilizing pre-cooked breaded chicken tenders and your favorite jarred pasta sauce, this recipe streamlines the traditional preparation process, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. The result is a bubbling, cheesy casserole that’s sure to please the whole family. It’s a great way to use up leftover pasta sauce or introduce new flavors by experimenting with different sauces. From start to finish, this bake comes together quickly, making it a go-to recipe when time is of the essence.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll adore this Shortcut Chicken Parmesan Bake because it combines convenience with deliciousness. It’s an absolute lifesaver for those nights when you want a hearty, home-style meal but are short on time and energy. The use of pre-cooked chicken tenders significantly cuts down on prep time without sacrificing the crispy, flavorful element of traditional chicken parmesan. The combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese creates a wonderfully gooey and savory topping that perfectly complements the tender chicken and saucy pasta. Plus, it’s easily customizable! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the pasta mixture for extra nutrients and flavor. Kids and adults alike will love the familiar and comforting flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s also a great way to get dinner on the table fast without relying on takeout or fast food.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag (about 24-32 ounces) frozen, fully cooked breaded chicken tenders or strips
- 1 box (16 ounces) penne pasta or ziti pasta
- 1 jar (24-26 ounces) pasta sauce, divided
- 1 package (8 ounces) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken tenders or strips according to the package directions. You can bake them in the oven or air fry them for extra crispiness. If baking, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. If air frying, work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Ensure the chicken is heated through and slightly crispy.
Step 3: While the chicken is cooking, cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, so the pasta should be firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the bake. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with approximately ⅔ of the jar of pasta sauce. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pasta and sauce mixture. Stir well to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and seasonings. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 5: Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. This creates a base layer for the chicken and cheese.
Step 6: Arrange the cooked chicken tenders or strips on top of the pasta in a single layer. Try to distribute them evenly across the dish.
Step 7: Pour the remaining ⅓ of the pasta sauce over the chicken tenders or strips. This adds moisture and flavor to the chicken.
Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire dish, covering the pasta and chicken. This creates a delicious, melted cheese topping.
Step 9: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over the mozzarella cheese. The parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor, and the Italian seasoning enhances the overall aroma and taste of the bake.
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. The casserole should be heated through, and the sauce should be bubbling around the edges.
Step 11: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Shortcut Chicken Parmesan Bake hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side of roasted asparagus or broccoli. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy bake. Garlic bread, either homemade or store-bought, is always a welcome addition. You can also sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the top for added freshness and visual appeal. A glass of Chianti or other medium-bodied red wine complements the flavors of the dish.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, sauté some chopped onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the pasta sauce.
- Add vegetables like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the pasta mixture for a healthier and more flavorful dish.
- Use different types of pasta sauce, such as marinara, arrabiata, or pesto, to vary the flavor of the bake.
- If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken tenders, you can use breaded chicken cutlets or nuggets instead.
- To make the bake ahead of time, assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pasta sauce.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the bake for the last few minutes of cooking time, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- To reduce the sodium content, use low-sodium pasta sauce and skip the added salt.
- Add a layer of ricotta cheese between the pasta and chicken for a creamier texture.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
The Shortcut Chicken Parmesan Bake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, offering a quick and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of chicken parmesan. By utilizing pre-cooked chicken and jarred pasta sauce, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under an hour. This recipe is easily adaptable to your taste preferences, allowing you to customize the ingredients and flavors to suit your family’s needs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful pasta sauce, and gooey cheese makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Enjoy the comforting and delicious flavors of this simple yet satisfying bake, and make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients and variations.
5 Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While penne and ziti are commonly used, you can substitute them with other types of pasta such as rotini, farfalle (bow-tie), or even spaghetti. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. The key is to choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce well and provides a good texture in the bake.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the Shortcut Chicken Parmesan Bake. Consider adding sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or spinach to the pasta mixture. Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the pasta will bring out their flavors and soften them slightly. This also ensures that they cook evenly in the bake.
Q3: What if I don’t have pre-cooked chicken tenders?
A: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken tenders, you can use breaded chicken cutlets or nuggets instead. Alternatively, you can bread your own chicken by dipping chicken breasts in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs before frying or baking them. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the bake. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Q4: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: To make the Shortcut Chicken Parmesan Bake healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Opt for low-fat mozzarella cheese and reduced-sodium pasta sauce. You can also add more vegetables to increase the nutrient content. Another tip is to use less cheese overall and sprinkle it sparingly over the top of the dish. Baking instead of frying the chicken, if you are making your own, will also reduce the fat content.
Q5: Can I freeze this chicken parmesan bake for later?
A: Yes, this chicken parmesan bake can be frozen for later use. To freeze, let the bake cool completely after cooking. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
