Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake

Crafting this delightful casserole begins with selecting high-quality, fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and comforting texture that makes this dish so special. We’ve focused on simple, readily available items that deliver maximum impact.

• 1 lb raw chicken breast, cubed: For optimal tenderness and even cooking, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cubing them ensures they cook through perfectly within the casserole’s baking time. You can also substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor profile.
• 1 ¾ cup uncooked penne pasta: Penne pasta is an excellent choice for casseroles due to its robust shape and ridged surface, which perfectly captures the creamy sauce. Other sturdy pasta shapes like rotini, ziti, or cavatappi would also work wonderfully, providing varied textures.
• 10 oz can cream of mushroom soup: This canned classic is the cornerstone of our casserole’s signature creaminess and deep umami flavor. It acts as a ready-made flavor base that significantly simplifies the preparation process.
• ½ cup milk: Milk is used to thin the condensed soup, creating a smooth, pourable sauce that ensures the pasta cooks evenly and remains moist. Any type of milk (whole, skim, or even a non-dairy alternative like almond or soy milk) can be used.
• ¾ cup chicken broth: Adding chicken broth further enhances the savory notes of the dish and provides additional liquid necessary for the pasta to hydrate and cook to al dente perfection in the oven. Low-sodium broth is a good option if you prefer to control the salt content.
• ¼ cup water: A small amount of water helps to achieve the ideal sauce consistency, preventing the casserole from becoming too thick or dry during baking.
• 8 oz white mushrooms, sliced: Fresh white mushrooms lend an earthy, delicate flavor and tender texture to the casserole. For a more intense mushroom flavor, consider using cremini (baby bella) mushrooms. Slicing them ensures they integrate well throughout the dish.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: This aromatic herb brings a warm, Mediterranean essence that beautifully complements both chicken and mushrooms. Its dried form is convenient and potent.
• 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the entire dish and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• ½ tsp pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick and depth. Adjust the quantity based on how much spice you prefer.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Offers a concentrated, savory onion flavor without adding moisture or texture. It blends seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
• ⅓ cup sour cream: Stirred in towards the end of the cooking process, sour cream introduces a delightful tanginess and an extra layer of luxurious creaminess that elevates the casserole. Both full-fat and light sour cream work well.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese: The crowning glory of this casserole! Mozzarella melts into a wonderfully gooey, stretchy, and golden-brown topping. Feel free to use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a sharper flavor, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for added saltiness.

Pro Tip: For an enhanced savory depth, consider briefly browning the cubed chicken in a skillet before adding it to the mixture. This step develops a delicious caramelized crust, though the recipe is designed to be delicious without it for ultimate ease.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Your Perfect Chicken Mushroom Pasta Casserole

Creating this delicious casserole is remarkably simple, making it an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Follow these clear, detailed steps to ensure a perfectly cooked, incredibly flavorful meal every time. Get ready to enjoy a hearty dish with minimal fuss!

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

   Begin by preheating your oven to a precise 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). This ensures that the oven is at the optimal temperature for the casserole to bake evenly from the moment it enters. While the oven heats up, take a large casserole dish (a 9×13 inch baking dish is usually perfect for this quantity) and generously spray its interior with a non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the pasta and sauce from sticking, making serving and cleanup significantly easier.

2. Whisk Together the Creamy Sauce Base

   In a very large mixing bowl, combine the entire can of cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup of milk, ¾ cup of chicken broth, and ¼ cup of water. Next, add your seasonings: 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Using a sturdy whisk, mix all these ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth, well-combined, and free of lumps. This creates the rich, flavorful, and moist base that will infuse every component of your casserole.

3. Combine All Main Ingredients

   Once your creamy sauce base is ready, it’s time to bring in the stars of the dish. Add the cubed raw chicken breast, the uncooked penne pasta, and the sliced white mushrooms directly into the large mixing bowl with the sauce. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold and toss all the ingredients together. Ensure that the chicken, pasta, and mushrooms are uniformly coated with the creamy sauce. It’s important that the pasta is adequately submerged in the liquid to cook properly and become tender during baking.

4. Assemble and Initiate First Bake (Covered)

   Carefully pour the entire chicken, pasta, and mushroom mixture from the mixing bowl into your prepared baking dish. Spread the mixture out evenly across the dish, ensuring it forms a consistent layer. Once evenly distributed, tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This covering is key: it traps steam and heat, allowing the pasta to cook through without drying out and ensuring the chicken becomes perfectly tender. Place the covered dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. During this stage, the flavors will begin to meld beautifully.

5. Add Sour Cream and Cheese, Then Finish Baking (Uncovered)

   After the initial 40 minutes of baking, carefully remove the casserole from the oven (remember to use oven mitts, as it will be very hot!). Remove and discard the aluminum foil. Now, add the ⅓ cup of sour cream to the casserole. Gently stir the sour cream into the pasta and chicken mixture until it is fully incorporated, adding an extra layer of richness and a subtle tangy note. Evenly sprinkle the 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and has achieved a light golden-brown color on top. This is when the magic happens!

6. Rest and Serve with Joy

   Once your casserole emerges from the oven, bubbling and golden, resist the urge to dig in immediately! It’s important to let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This short resting period allows the sauce to thicken and set slightly, preventing it from being too runny and making it much easier to portion. Garnish with some fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade, comforting chicken mushroom pasta bake. Get ready for rave reviews!

Chef’s Note: If you find your casserole is browning too quickly during the uncovered bake, you can loosely tent it with foil to prevent over-browning while the cheese still melts.

Watch the Recipe Video for Visual Guidance

Sometimes, seeing is believing, and watching a recipe come to life can make all the difference! This comprehensive video guide will walk you through each and every step of preparing this delightful Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake. Follow along for visual tips, techniques, and a clearer understanding of the process, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time.

This video features Julia Pacheco demonstrating this and other easy casserole recipes, making it even easier for you to master this dish!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)

For those mindful of their dietary intake, here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this comforting Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake. These values are calculated automatically and can vary based on specific brands, ingredient substitutions, and portion sizes.

Disclaimer: Nutrition information provided is an automatic calculation and should only be used as an approximation. Individual results may vary based on specific ingredients, preparation methods, and portion control. For precise dietary planning, consulting a registered dietitian is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Pasta Casserole

We understand you might have questions about customizing or preparing this dish. Here are some common queries and their answers to help you perfect your chicken mushroom pasta bake!

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can assemble the entire casserole (up to Step 3, before adding sour cream and cheese) and cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time since you’re starting with a cold dish. Then proceed with adding sour cream and cheese for the final uncovered bake.

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is recommended for its lean protein content and quick cooking time, ensuring tender results without a lot of fat. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as a delicious alternative; they tend to be even more tender and offer a richer flavor, though they may slightly increase the fat content of the dish.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, this casserole is incredibly versatile and welcomes additional vegetables! Consider stirring in a cup of frozen peas or corn during the last 10 minutes of baking. Sautéed diced bell peppers or a handful of fresh spinach (stirred in with the sour cream) would also be fantastic additions for extra nutrients and color. Just ensure any fresh, hearty vegetables are cooked slightly beforehand to ensure tenderness.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken mushroom pasta casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat individual portions, use a microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the pasta seems a bit dry. For larger portions, cover an oven-safe dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.

Is it possible to freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble the dish completely (up to the point before the first bake, so without the sour cream and mozzarella). Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, bake as directed in the recipe, potentially adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time. Then, incorporate the sour cream and mozzarella for the final uncovered bake.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Pasta Bake

While this Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake is a complete and satisfying meal all on its own, pairing it with a few simple side dishes can elevate your dinner experience. Here are some delicious ideas to complement its rich flavors:

• Crisp Green Salad: A fresh, light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the casserole, cleansing the palate with every bite.
• Warm Garlic Bread or Rolls: A classic companion for any pasta dish! Toasted garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious, creamy sauce.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Simple sides like steamed broccoli florets, green beans, or roasted asparagus can add extra nutrients and vibrant color to your plate without overpowering the main dish.
• Crusty Artisan Bread: A good quality loaf of rustic bread is always a welcome addition, ideal for tearing and dipping into the savory sauce.

A New Family Favorite Awaits

This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to bring warmth, comfort, and incredible flavor to your family’s dinner table. With its simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and undeniably delicious outcome, it’s destined to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this casserole delivers on all fronts.

We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and experience the joy of a homemade, comforting meal. Don’t forget to share your experience! We’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Please leave a comment and rating below to let us know your thoughts and inspire other home cooks.