Making this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Parmesan Casserole is incredibly straightforward. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a light layer of oil.
3. Combine Ingredients: In the prepared casserole dish, combine the cubed chicken, uncooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
4. Add Water: Pour in 2 cups of water. Stir until it’s combined thoroughly with the other ingredients.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Then, finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
7. Uncover and Brown: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve: Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in no time!