Comforting Baked Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

Comforting Baked Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta: A Family Favorite

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Hey there, pasta lovers! Ella here, and I’m excited to share with you my ultimate comfort food recipe: Baked Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and al dente pasta, all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce. It’s the perfect meal for cozy family dinners or potlucks with friends!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

  • Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
  • Packed with protein from chicken and calcium from cheese
  • Easy to make ahead and reheat
  • Customizable with your favorite pasta shapes
  • Great for using up leftover chicken

Let’s dive into this cheesy, comforting goodness!

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work well)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and mushrooms, cooking until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, melt butter. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  5. Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese and the Parmesan. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, mushroom mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for the Best Baked Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut
  • Experiment with different cheese combinations for varied flavors
  • Add some spinach or peas for extra veggies
  • For a crunchy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (watch carefully!)
  • Make it ahead and refrigerate before baking for an easy weeknight dinner

Variations to Try

  • Swap chicken for turkey or ham
  • Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist
  • Try different mushroom varieties like shiitake or oyster mushrooms
  • Make it spicy with a dash of red pepper flakes

This Baked Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is my go-to recipe when I need a comforting, satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table. It’s like a warm hug in a dish! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for the perfect potluck contribution, this pasta bake has got you covered.

Have you tried this recipe? What’s your favorite pasta bake? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram with the hashtag #EllasPastaPerfection!

Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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