Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Bake

Indulge in the rich flavors of a perfectly baked pasta dish, where tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce come together in a culinary masterpiece that will leave you wanting more.

Introduction to the Recipe

To begin, let’s outline the key details of this recipe:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes

Servings and Difficulty

• Yield: 6 servings
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups (120g) mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme
• 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
• 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
• 1 cup (120g) grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes or until it has thickened slightly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the chicken and mushroom sauce, and stir until the pasta is well coated.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Chef’s Notes or Substitutions

You can substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a different twist. Also, feel free to use different types of cheese or add some diced bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta.
• Let the dish rest before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage & Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Table

Calories	Carbs	Protein	Fat	Sugar
520	40g	35g	25g	5g

FAQ

• Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta a day in advance, then assemble and bake when you’re ready.
• Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
  A: No, due to the chicken. However, you can substitute the chicken with a vegetarian alternative.
• Q: Can I freeze this dish?
  A: Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, the Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Bake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of chicken, mushrooms, and creamy sauce baked to perfection.