Lazy Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti is the perfect weeknight meal for busy families. Made with just five affordable ingredients, this easy dinner recipe brings the comfort of classic Italian flavors without the hassle. Whether you’re feeding a large family or prepping for leftovers, this cheesy pasta casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s as simple as it is satisfying. With crispy chicken patties, gooey mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce, it’s no wonder this dish has become a go-to favorite for budget-conscious home cooks. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it flawlessly every time.
Why You’ll Love This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti
This recipe is everything a busy cook could want: minimal prep, maximum flavor. By using frozen chicken patties, jarred marinara, and a few pantry staples, you can serve up a hearty, cheesy dinner without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s what makes it so lovable:
- Kid-friendly and family-sized – It serves up to 8 people, making it great for big households or meal prepping.
- Budget-friendly – With only 5 main ingredients, this casserole is easy on your wallet.
- Customizable – Use your favorite sauce or cheese blend to make it your own.
- Freezer-friendly – You can prep it in advance or store leftovers for another day.
Ingredients
To make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti, you’ll need:
- 1 (1 lb) box of thin spaghetti
- 2 (24 oz) jars of marinara or pasta sauce
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 frozen chicken patties (such as Tyson)
- Optional: salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step: How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti
- Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a bit of oil. - Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil the thin spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot. - Mix with Sauce and Cheese:
Add about 1.5 jars of marinara sauce (reserve the rest for later), 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, and your optional seasonings to the pasta. Stir until evenly combined. - Layer in the Casserole Dish:
Transfer the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. - Add Chicken Patties:
Arrange the 8 frozen chicken patties on top of the pasta in a single layer. No need to thaw! - First Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the patties are warmed and slightly crispy. - Top with Remaining Sauce and Cheese:
Spoon the remaining sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and ½ cup of parmesan evenly over the top. - Final Bake:
Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Helpful Tips
- Season smart: Some jarred sauces can be bland. Taste and adjust with garlic powder, basil, oregano, or a pinch of sugar.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it al dente since it will bake further in the oven.
- Use a broiler: For extra crispy cheese on top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Let it rest: Allow the baked spaghetti to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to slice.
Substitutions And Variations
- Chicken patties: Swap with grilled chicken strips, rotisserie chicken, or even plant-based patties for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese options: Try Velveeta, shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack instead of mozzarella for a fun twist.
- Pasta swaps: If spaghetti isn’t available, feel free to substitute with penne, rigatoni, or rotini.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara for heat.
- No pasta version: You can follow the same steps without pasta and serve the chicken parmesan in sandwiches or over rice.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
- Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
- Meal prep tip: Divide the baked spaghetti into individual portions for easy, ready-to-go lunches throughout the week.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 7g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on brands used and exact portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple green salad with Italian dressing for a balanced meal.
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks pair perfectly with this dish.
- A side of roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers adds color and nutrition.
- For a creative touch, garnish each serving with a fresh basil leaf and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lazy Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Do I need to thaw the chicken patties first?
Nope! One of the best parts of this recipe is that the frozen patties go straight into the oven, saving you time and effort.
Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Of course. If you have a favorite homemade sauce, go for it! It will only add more depth and flavor to the dish.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven covered with foil until hot throughout.
Can I freeze the whole casserole?
Yes, this recipe is freezer-friendly. Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45-50 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for stopping by to try this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti recipe. It’s one of those comforting meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for the week, or just craving something cheesy and satisfying, this recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s easy, affordable, and full of flavor—what more could you ask for? I hope you enjoy every bite as much as I do. Happy cooking, and thanks for being part of this food-loving community!
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Lazy Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Baked Spaghetti is a cheesy, budget-friendly weeknight dinner made with just 5 simple ingredients. Perfect for large families, it’s quick to prepare and full of comforting flavor. Save this easy casserole recipe and make dinner stress-free tonight!
Ingredients
1 (1 lb) box thin spaghetti
2 (24 oz) jars marinara or pasta sauce
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
8 frozen chicken patties (such as Tyson)
Optional: salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a bit of oil. - Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil the thin spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot. - Mix with Sauce and Cheese:
Add about 1.5 jars of marinara sauce (reserve the rest for later), 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, and your optional seasonings to the pasta. Stir until evenly combined. - Layer in the Casserole Dish:
Transfer the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. - Add Chicken Patties:
Arrange the 8 frozen chicken patties on top of the pasta in a single layer. No need to thaw! - First Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the patties are warmed and slightly crispy. - Top with Remaining Sauce and Cheese:
Spoon the remaining sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and ½ cup of parmesan evenly over the top. - Final Bake:
Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Notes
No need to thaw chicken patties before baking.
Add garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Use any pasta you have on hand, such as penne or rotini.
Leftovers store well and are great for meal prep.
Want a sandwich version? Skip the pasta and bake just the sauced patties with cheese!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired