Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Bake
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with a comforting dish that will become your new favorite. As you take your first bite, the harmony of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms will transport you to a culinary paradise.
## Introduction to the Recipe
To make this delightful dish, you’ll need to know a few key details.
### Prep and Cook Time
Prep time: 20 minutes, Cook time: 35 minutes, Total time: 55 minutes.
### Yield
This recipe yields 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
### Difficulty Level
The difficulty level of this recipe is moderate, requiring some basic cooking skills and attention to detail.
## Ingredients and Instructions
To start cooking, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
### Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your creamy chicken and mushroom pasta bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and cook until the liquid has reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for an additional 2 minutes, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and the mushroom sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with the grated mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
## Additional Tips and Information
### Chef’s Notes or Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with roasted eggplant or zucchini, adding them to the mushroom sauce for added flavor.
### Tips for Success
* Use a variety of mushrooms for a deeper flavor profile.
* Don’t overcook the pasta to ensure it retains some bite.
* Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
## Storage and Nutrition
### Storage & Reheating
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.
### Nutrition Table
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 520 | 35g | 37g | 24g | 5g |
## Frequently Asked Questions
### FAQ
1. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different pasta shapes, but penne and fusilli work best due to their tube shape that holds the sauce well.
2. How can I make this recipe lighter?
You can reduce the amount of heavy cream and cheese to make a lighter version, or substitute with lower-fat alternatives.
3. Can this dish be made ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta a day in advance. Combine and bake when ready.
4. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, this recipe is very kid-friendly. You can adjust the amount of garlic and herbs according to your child’s taste preferences.
## Conclusion
With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and rich mushroom flavor, this creamy chicken and mushroom pasta bake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Take the leap and treat your family to this Italian-inspired delight. You’ll find that the combination of flavors and the comforting, cheesy top layer will make it a dish you return to time and time again. So, go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the process of creating a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for more.
