Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake

Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of creamy pasta, loaded with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a blend of rich cheeses, all perfectly balanced and baked to a golden, bubbly perfection. The key to this dish is the combination of sautéed mushrooms and onions, which creates a depth of flavor that elevates the entire recipe. As the pasta bakes, the aroma of melted cheese and fresh herbs will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. This creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake is a true comfort food classic, perfect for a cozy night in with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 250g pasta of your choice, such as penne or fusilli
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced, including button, cremini, and shiitake
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese, sharply flavored
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, freshly shredded
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tsp dried thyme, fragrant and earthy
• 1 tsp salt, to bring out the flavors
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 tbsp olive oil, rich and fruity
• 2 cloves garlic, minced, for an added depth
• 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium, to add moisture
• 1 cup heavy cream, rich and creamy
• 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180C, with a rack in the middle, and gather all your ingredients, including the pasta, onion, mushrooms, eggs, cheese, flour, thyme, salt, pepper, olive oil, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and chicken, and line your baking sheet with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal. This small prep step saves you time later and ensures nothing sticks. As you wait for the oven to heat up, take a moment to appreciate the aroma of the thyme and rosemary, which will soon fill your kitchen.
2. Step 2: Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain and set aside, making sure to reserve 1 cup of pasta water, which will come in handy later to adjust the sauce’s consistency. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and sauté the diced onion until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize, filling the air with a sweet, savory aroma. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant, then add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, stirring occasionally, and watching as they transform from raw to tender and earthy.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken to the skillet, and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of your pieces, and the sound of sizzling meat will fill the air. Remove the chicken from the skillet, and set it aside with the cooked pasta, then add the flour to the skillet, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s lightly toasted and has a nutty aroma, which will help to thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and bring the mixture to a simmer, watching as it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, then reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for a few minutes, until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. Step 4: Stir in the grated cheddar and parmesan cheese, until melted and smooth, then add the cooked pasta, chicken, and reserved pasta water, if needed, to the cheese sauce, and stir until everything is well combined, and the pasta is coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme, then transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, and top with additional grated cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley, for a pop of color and freshness.
5. Step 5: Bake the pasta in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown, and the sauce is bubbly, and the aroma of melted cheese and fresh herbs will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. Remove the pasta from the oven, and let it cool for a few minutes, before serving, and the sound of happy chatter and clinking forks will fill the air, as you enjoy this creamy, comforting dish with your loved ones.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake with a side of garlic bread, or a simple green salad, and a glass of pinot grigio, for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. To set the mood, dim the lights, and light some candles, and the soft glow will make the dish feel even more special and comforting. Consider adding some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the table, for a pop of color and fragrance, and the sound of happy chatter will fill the air, as you enjoy this delicious meal with your loved ones.

Chef Tips:
To ensure the sauce doesn’t become too thick, make sure to whisk constantly when adding the flour and liquid, and adjust the amount of pasta water to your liking, for a creamier or lighter sauce
For an extra crispy top, broil the pasta for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning, and the sound of sizzling cheese will fill the air
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheated in the oven or microwave, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks

Prep: | Cook: | Servings: