Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake.

1. Step 1

   Start by filling a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a vigorous boil over high heat.

2. Step 2

   Once the water is bubbling away, toss in the rotini pasta and let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—this should take about 8 minutes.

3. Step 3

   When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for now.

4. Step 4

   Next, let’s get that oil heating up! In a deep-fryer or a large saucepan, warm the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).

5. Step 5

   While that’s happening, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for the final bake.

6. Step 6

   Now, it’s time to create a breading station.

7. Step 7

   Grab three separate bowls and fill one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with Italian seasoned bread crumbs.

8. Step 8

   For an extra kick of flavor, mix some garlic powder into the bread crumbs.

9. Step 9

   Working in small batches, take your chicken pieces and first coat them in flour, then dip them in the egg, and finally roll them in the seasoned bread crumbs until they’re well covered.

10. Step 10

    Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil, frying in small batches until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through—this should take about 3 to 4 minutes.

11. Step 11

    To ensure they’re perfectly done, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

12. Step 12

    Once fried, let the chicken drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

13. Step 13

    In a large bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, the crispy fried chicken, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

14. Step 14

    Pour in the marinara sauce and give it a good stir to mix everything together.

15. Step 15

    For a little extra flavor, pour some dry red wine into the empty marinara jar, cover it, and shake it up before adding it to the pasta mixture.

16. Step 16

    Stir well to combine all those delicious flavors.

17. Step 17

    Now, transfer this hearty pasta mixture into a large casserole dish and cover it with aluminum foil.

18. Step 18

    Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for 30 minutes.

19. Step 19

    After half an hour, take off the foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and another 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.

20. Step 20

    Return the dish to the oven and continue baking until the cheese is melted and bubbly, which should take about another 30 minutes.

21. Step 21

    Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

22. Step 22

    This is the moment to savor the aroma and anticipation! Serve it hot and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite of your delicious creation!.