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Chicken Nugget Parm Casserole

A fun twist on traditional chicken Parmesan, this easy casserole combines pasta, marinara, chicken nuggets, and cheesy goodness, making it a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauces
  • 3/4 lb. rigatoni or other short pasta Use any short pasta you prefer.
  • 2 24-oz. jars marinara sauce Divided into two parts.
Chicken and Cheese
  • 2 1-lb. bags frozen chicken nuggets Divided for layering.
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella About 1 lb., divided.
  • 6 Tbsp. finely grated Parmesan Divided for layering.
Cooking Essentials
  • cooking spray cooking spray For greasing the baking dish.
  • Kosher salt Kosher salt For boiling pasta.
  • Chopped fresh basil Chopped fresh basil For garnish before serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
  2. Grease an 11-inch by 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a pinch of kosher salt.
  4. Add the pasta and cook until very al dente, about 2 to 3 minutes less than suggested on the package.
Assembly
  1. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large bowl. While warm, mix in one jar of marinara sauce until evenly coated.
  2. Layer half of the pasta mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Arrange 2 cups of chicken nuggets on top, followed by half of the remaining marinara sauce.
  4. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan over the sauce.
  5. Top with the remaining pasta mixture and another 2 cups of chicken nuggets.
Baking
  1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the casserole, and top with the last 2 cups of mozzarella and 3 tablespoons of Parmesan.
  3. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serving
  1. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Notes

For a crispy top, consider broiling for a couple of minutes after baking. Ensure to monitor closely to prevent burning. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.