Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole

If you’re craving a comforting dinner that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious creamy sauce all baked to perfection, this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s a fantastic one-dish meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight but flavorful enough to impress family and friends. Using simple ingredients like penne pasta, chicken breast, and a blend of cheeses, this casserole delivers a rich, hearty experience with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole is a total crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy chicken and mushrooms simmered in a creamy, garlicky sauce makes for a deeply satisfying dish. Plus, it’s baked with mozzarella and parmesan cheese, which melt into a golden, bubbly topping that’s irresistible. It’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry family because it’s filling, flavorful, and made in one pan. You’ll also appreciate how easily you can customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables. Whether you’re new to cooking casseroles or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward, requiring no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

Ingredient List

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work best)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Gear Checklist

• Large pot – for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook chicken and veggies
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurement
• Baking dish – a 9×13 inch works perfectly
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce
• Knife and cutting board – to prep chicken, mushrooms, and onion
• Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot pans

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne or rotini pasta and cook until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. Drain the pasta and set it aside — it will finish cooking in the sauce and the oven, soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the chicken and vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season it with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have released their moisture, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the creamy sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.

Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix everything together so the pasta is well coated in the creamy mushroom and chicken sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the casserole for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Add sautéed spinach or kale for a green boost during winter months.
• Mix in roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree in the sauce for a fall twist.
• Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for holiday crunch.
• Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary instead of Italian seasoning for a fragrant herb upgrade.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of color and tang.

Testing Timeline

• Initial test: confirmed timing for pasta and chicken cooking to ensure tenderness.
• Second trial: adjusted seasoning ratios to balance creaminess with herbs.
• Third run: tested baking time for perfectly melted cheese without drying out casserole.
• Final test: garnishing and serving suggestions refined for best presentation and flavor.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Store leftover Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole (before baking) in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Quick Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or rotini work best to hold the sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni without compromising the flavor or texture.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and use dairy-free cheese substitutes to keep it creamy and delicious without dairy.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble this dish a day before baking, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I serve alongside this casserole?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich flavors wonderfully. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also great for soaking up any extra sauce.

Similar Recipes

• Baked Chicken Alfredo Ziti – another creamy baked pasta with chicken and cheese.
• Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta – a flavorful pasta dish with a rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Bring It to the Table

Gather your loved ones around the table and serve this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole straight from the oven for a warm, comforting meal. The cheesy top with the fragrant mushroom and garlic aroma fills the kitchen, signaling a delicious dinner is ready. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine or your favorite beverage for a complete experience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special weekend meal, this casserole’s creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a winner every time. It’s a dish that invites seconds and leftovers, perfect for sharing and savoring.

This recipe proves that simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special—comfort food at its finest with a touch of elegance. Give it a try, and you’ll soon see why it’s a favorite in many homes.

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