Are you craving a hearty, satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luxuriously creamy sauce? This Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish blends simple ingredients into a mouthwatering casserole that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
- Pasta and Filling:
- 350g (12.3 oz) short pasta (penne, fusilli, or shell pasta)
- 2 chicken fillets (300-350g / 10.5-12.3 oz), cut into pieces
- 250g (8.8 oz) button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
- Creamy Sauce:
- 200ml (6.8 fl oz) full-fat crème fraîche
- 100ml (3.4 fl oz) milk
- 80g (2.8 oz) grated cheese (Emmental, mozzarella, Comté)
- 40g (1.4 oz) grated Parmesan (optional)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Baking Topping:
- 50-80g (1.8-2.8 oz) additional grated cheese
- Fine breadcrumbs (optional)
- Butter for greasing the dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente
- Drain and toss with a drizzle of oil or butter to prevent sticking
- Set aside
2. Cook the Chicken and Mushrooms
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides (5-6 minutes)
- Season with salt and pepper
- Add sliced onions and minced garlic
- Incorporate sliced mushrooms
- Sauté until mushrooms release their liquid and lightly brown
3. Create the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium-low
- Add crème fraîche and milk to the skillet
- Stir in grated cheese and Parmesan
- Season with a pinch of nutmeg
- Mix until smooth and creamy
4. Combine and Bake
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Butter a baking dish
- Mix cooked pasta with chicken and mushroom mixture
- Pour into prepared baking dish
- Top with additional grated cheese
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs if desired
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly
Nutrition and Serving Details
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Highlights (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fat: 25-30g
Why This Pasta Bake is a Nutritious Choice
This Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Bake isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and growth, while mushrooms offer a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The combination of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats makes this dish a balanced meal that will keep you satisfied and energized.
The use of crème fraîche and cheese adds calcium and probiotics, supporting bone health and digestive wellness. By using whole ingredients and controlling portion sizes, this recipe offers a nutritious alternative to heavy, processed meals.
Pro Tip: For a lighter version, substitute full-fat crème fraîche with Greek yogurt and use lean chicken breast to reduce overall calories while maintaining incredible flavor.