Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Bake
Indulge in the comforting embrace of a Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Bake that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sauce all enveloped in cheesy pasta goodness. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Let’s dive into the delectable world of this creamy, savory bake!
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake
- #12 oz (340 g) penne pasta or any pasta of your choice
- #2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- #8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms)
- #1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- #1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- #1 small onion, finely chopped
- #3 cloves garlic, minced
- #2 cups heavy cream
- #1 cup chicken broth
- #2 tbsp olive oil
- #1 tsp dried thyme
- #1 tsp paprika
- #Salt and black pepper to taste
- #Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Toppings
- #Additional mozzarella cheese
- #Breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your pasta bake cooks evenly and becomes beautifully golden on top.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and any moisture has evaporated, approximately 5-6 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the creamy mushroom sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated. Fold in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, reserving the other half for topping.
Step 6: Assemble the Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. For a crunchy texture, you can also add breadcrumbs at this stage.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Cooking Tips
- #Ingredient Selection: Opt for fresh mushrooms for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, canned mushrooms can be used, but they won’t have the same texture.
- #Chicken Choices: Feel free to use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even sautéed chicken breast. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with roasted vegetables or chickpeas.
- #Pasta Variations: While penne is recommended, any pasta shape will work! Try rigatoni or fusilli for a different texture.
- #Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Add spinach or kale for a nutritious boost.
- Spice it up with some red pepper flakes or sautéed bell peppers for added color and heat.
Pairing Suggestions
This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette or garlic bread for a complete meal. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, balances the richness of the dish perfectly.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.
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Explore more recipes like our Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells or Classic Baked Ziti to broaden your cooking repertoire. Happy cooking!
