Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 500 grams chicken breast (cubed); 2 cups mushrooms (sliced); 1 medium onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); Salt and pepper to taste

70 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in this creamy chicken and mushroom pasta casserole, a comforting dish perfect for family dinners.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

70 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

This creamy chicken and mushroom pasta casserole is a delightful blend of tender chicken pieces, savory mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It's a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. The combination of chicken and mushrooms is a classic, and when paired with a creamy sauce and pasta, it creates a dish that is both hearty and comforting. This casserole is perfect for those chilly evenings when you're looking for something to warm you up from the inside out.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Do not overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Prepare the chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Pro tip: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Cook vegetables

In the same skillet, add mushrooms and onions. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Pro tip: Use a mix of button and cremini mushrooms for extra flavour.

Make the sauce

Melt butter in the skillet. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream, then bring to a simmer until thickened.

Pro tip: Whisk constantly to prevent lumps.

Combine ingredients

Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake the casserole

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Pro tip: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to set.

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Tips & Tricks

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavour.
Cook pasta al dente to avoid sogginess in the casserole.
Allow the casserole to rest before serving for better slicing.
Use a mix of mushrooms for a depth of flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta should I use?

Penne pasta works well for this casserole, but you can also use fusilli or rigatoni.

Can I use different mushrooms?

Yes, you can use any mushrooms you like, such as button, cremini, or shiitake.

How can I make it healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cream for a lighter version.

How long does it take to cook chicken thoroughly?

It usually takes about 5-7 minutes to cook chicken pieces in a skillet until they reach 165°F (74°C).

Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Thaw and bake as directed when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy chicken and mushroom pasta casserole with a simple green salad and a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. This dish also pairs beautifully with a light white wine, such as a Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the creamy sauce and earthy mushrooms.

Nutrition per serving

520

Calories

32g

Protein

22g

Fat

A comforting and hearty pierogie and mushroom casserole perfect for any day, combining creamy textures with earthy mushroom flavours.

Medium60 min

See the recipe

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