Chicken Marsala Mushroom Pasta Bake

Chicken Marsala Mushroom Pasta Bake is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy Marsala-infused sauce all baked to bubbly perfection with cheesy goodness. This one-pan meal brings together the best of Italian-American flavors with an easy-to-follow recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The rich sauce, tender penne pasta, and melty mozzarella make every bite a delight. If you’re looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is your new go-to comfort food.

Why Chicken Marsala Mushroom Pasta Bake is Worth Your Time

This Chicken Marsala Mushroom Pasta Bake stands out because it’s both indulgent and straightforward. It’s a dish that feels special but doesn’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. The combination of chicken breast, mushrooms, and a rich Marsala sauce creates layers of flavor that are satisfying and cozy. Plus, the pasta bake format means everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes: hearty, delicious, and convenient.

The creamy sauce, enhanced by balsamic vinegar and aromatic herbs like oregano and thyme, elevates this dish beyond a typical casserole. And the golden, cheesy crust from mozzarella and Parmesan adds the perfect finishing touch. This recipe also pairs wonderfully with other creamy pasta dishes like Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole or the luscious Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta, making it a great addition to any pasta lover’s recipe collection.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 8 oz penne pasta – The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and baked cheese.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and mushrooms, adds richness and depth.
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced – Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavorful sauce.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Earthy and meaty mushrooms complement the Marsala flavor beautifully.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds aromatic intensity to the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Creates a flavorful base for the sauce and keeps the pasta moist.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar – Adds a subtle tang and depth to the Marsala sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings a warm, herbal note to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luscious, thick sauce that coats the pasta and chicken perfectly.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully to form a gooey, golden topping.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps create a crisp crust.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Brightens the dish with color and freshness.

Recommended Tools

• Large pot – To boil pasta al dente before baking.
• Large skillet – For sautéing chicken, mushrooms, and garlic to develop flavor.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well) – To assemble and bake the pasta bake to perfection.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce and mixing ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate seasoning and ingredient portions.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – For dicing chicken and slicing mushrooms.

Method: Chicken Marsala Mushroom Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until just al dente according to package instructions (usually about 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until mushrooms are tender and lightly browned, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Marsala Sauce

To the mushrooms, pour in chicken broth and add the balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing to coat evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the chicken Marsala sauce, making sure the pasta is fully coated.
Transfer the mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• Chicken breast: Use diced turkey breast or firm tofu as a plant-based substitute.
• Heavy cream: Swap with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
• Mozzarella cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit for a lighter bake.
• Penne pasta: Substitute with gluten-free pasta or whole wheat penne for added nutrition.
• Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version.

Avoid These Traps

• Overcooking the pasta before baking – Pasta should be cooked al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Using too much liquid – Be careful with the amount of chicken broth and cream; too much can make the bake watery.
• Skipping seasoning – Salt and pepper are crucial to bring out the flavors in the sauce and chicken.
• Not browning the chicken properly – Sear the chicken well to develop flavor and texture before adding sauce.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare the Chicken Marsala Mushroom Pasta Bake up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the dish as directed but wait to add the cheese topping. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. Before baking, add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then bake as usual.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked pasta bake without cheese for up to 2 months, thaw overnight before baking.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my pasta bake watery after baking?

This usually happens when too much liquid is added or the pasta is overcooked before baking. Make sure to cook pasta al dente and carefully measure broth and cream. Also, avoid thawing frozen pasta bake completely before baking, as excess moisture can accumulate.

Can I use other mushrooms besides button mushrooms?

Absolutely! Cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms work beautifully and add more depth of flavor. Just slice them evenly and sauté until tender.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives or omit the cheese topping. These swaps maintain creaminess without dairy.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain texture and melt the cheese nicely. The microwave works for a quick option but may make the pasta a bit softer.

Serve with These

• Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole – For a double dose of mushroom and chicken comfort food.
• Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta – Another creamy pasta option that complements this dish well.
• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich Marsala sauce.
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette – Adds freshness and balance to the meal.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans pair nicely with the creamy pasta bake.

Bring It to the Table

Bring this Chicken Marsala Mushroom Pasta Bake to your table when you want a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal that feels both indulgent and homey. The inviting aroma of Marsala wine, garlic, and herbs will draw everyone in, while the creamy sauce and cheesy crust create a dish everyone will rave about. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this pasta bake offers a perfect balance of comfort and elegance without fuss. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve alongside a crisp salad or warm bread to complete the spread. This dish also reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.

This recipe blends simple ingredients with bold flavors, making it a valuable addition to your recipe repertoire. Its versatility allows for easy ingredient swaps and adapts well to different dietary needs. So next time you crave a creamy, savory pasta bake with tender chicken and mushrooms, this Chicken Marsala Mushroom Pasta Bake is the answer.

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