Chicken Parmesan Ravioli Bake

There’s something about comfort food that wraps you up in a cozy hug, and this Chicken Parmesan Ravioli Bake is exactly that kind of dish. It brings together tender chicken ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheese in a delicious, easy-to-make casserole that feels like a warm Italian dinner without all the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this bake hits all the right notes with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why It Works Every Time

What makes this Chicken Parmesan Ravioli Bake a winner? It’s the harmony of textures and flavors. The ravioli cooks up beautifully, soft yet sturdy enough to hold its shape beneath layers of sauce and cheese. The shredded chicken adds a hearty protein boost, making the meal more filling and satisfying. Then you have the herbs—garlic powder, oregano, and basil—that bring that classic Italian seasoning punch without overwhelming the dish. Finally, the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan melts into a bubbly, golden crust that’s impossible to resist.

This recipe is straightforward, foolproof, and incredibly versatile, making it great for busy cooks who want a wholesome, crowd-pleasing meal without complicated prep or hard-to-find ingredients.

What to Buy

• 12 oz chicken ravioli: Fresh or frozen, either works well here.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or homemade if you prefer.
• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken meat: Rotisserie chicken works great for ease.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Whole milk mozzarella melts best.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor.
• 1 tsp garlic powder for that savory depth.
• 1 tsp dried oregano to keep the Italian vibe strong.
• 1 tsp dried basil for a fragrant herbal note.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and freshness.

Gear Checklist

• Baking dish: A 9×9-inch or similar size works perfectly.
• Large skillet: For warming the sauce and mixing ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: To combine chicken, herbs, and seasoning.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy.
• Cheese grater: If grating your own Parmesan cheese.
• Spatula or spoon: For stirring and layering.

The Method for Chicken Parmesan Ravioli Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ravioli

Boil the chicken ravioli according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Seasonings

In a mixing bowl, toss the cooked shredded chicken with garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. This will infuse the chicken with those classic Italian flavors.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

In your baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ravioli over the sauce. Sprinkle half of the seasoned shredded chicken evenly on top, followed by half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Repeat the layers: marinara sauce, ravioli, chicken, and cheeses until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling

Drizzle olive oil over the top, then bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• Ravioli: Use spinach or cheese ravioli for a vegetarian twist.
• Chicken: Substitute with turkey or tofu for different protein options.
• Cheese: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives for lactose intolerance.
• Marinara sauce: Try a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a kick.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a brighter flavor.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

This Chicken Parmesan Ravioli Bake is inspired by the classic chicken Parmesan but with a fun twist using ravioli as the star. Using cooked, shredded chicken makes the dish quicker to assemble, especially if you have leftovers or a rotisserie bird on hand. The layering technique ensures every bite has a perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and filling.

Keep in mind, the quality of your marinara sauce will greatly impact the final flavor, so choose one you love or make your own for extra depth. The olive oil drizzle before baking adds a lovely richness and helps the cheese brown beautifully.

How to Store & Reheat

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, covered, stirring halfway.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh ravioli cooks faster and can make this dish even more tender. Just watch the cooking time carefully to avoid overcooking during the boiling step.

My bake turned out watery. How can I fix that?

Make sure to drain the ravioli thoroughly and avoid using too much sauce. Sometimes excess moisture comes from watery marinara, so simmering your sauce to thicken it can help prevent this issue.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the bake and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold going into the oven.

What can I substitute for the shredded chicken?

You can swap chicken for cooked ground turkey, sausage, or even a plant-based protein to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

One Pan, More Ideas

• For another cheesy baked pasta, try the Baked Four Cheese Ziti — it’s a crowd-pleaser!
• If you love layered casseroles, the Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Bake is a creamy, veggie-packed option.
• For a quick weeknight twist on Italian classics, check out the Chicken Parmesan Spaghetti recipe.

The Takeaway

This Chicken Parmesan Ravioli Bake is a delicious, simple way to bring together tender pasta pockets, savory chicken, and cheese in a comforting, family-friendly meal. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying without a complicated recipe. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients and easy to prepare ahead of time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy dinner, this dish delivers all the warm, cheesy goodness you need.

Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to pasta bake!

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