Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake is a heartwarming, oven-baked pasta dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. Topped with melted cheese and baked until golden and bubbling, this dish delivers the ultimate comfort food experience.

It’s cozy, filling, and full of savory goodness — ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you want something satisfying yet elegant. The creamy sauce, seasoned chicken, and cheesy topping make every bite irresistible!

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy, and savory. The combination of tender chicken, mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce creates a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive enough for guests.

Plus, it’s versatile — you can easily swap in your favorite pasta or veggies. The golden, bubbly cheese on top seals the deal for me — it’s comfort food perfection in one pan!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake is a must-try because it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make ahead. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta perfectly, ensuring every forkful is rich and delicious. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, and the mushrooms add depth and umami.

The dish also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. One bite and you’ll know why it’s a crowd favorite!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~520 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: Italian-American
Course: Main Course, Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake:

12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons butter
8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

Cook pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
Sauté chicken until golden, then set aside.
Cook mushrooms and garlic, then prepare the creamy sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cream.
Combine chicken, pasta, and sauce, then top with cheeses.
Bake until golden and bubbly.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package directions).
Drain, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Sear until golden and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
Add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown and tender (5–6 minutes).
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat.
Gradually pour in milk and cream while whisking to avoid lumps.
Add thyme and Italian seasoning.
Simmer until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
Stir in half of the Parmesan and half of the mozzarella until melted.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
Stir until everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan on top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

How to Serve

Serve your Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake warm with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light Caesar salad. A chilled glass of white wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio) complements the creamy, savory flavors perfectly.

Additional Recipe Tips

Don’t overcook the pasta — it will continue cooking in the oven.
Add a splash of chicken broth to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor and meltiness.
For a golden top, broil for 2 minutes after baking.
You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time.

Variations

Spinach Mushroom Pasta Bake: Add a handful of fresh spinach before baking.
Bacon Lovers’ Twist: Add crispy bacon bits for smoky flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or Cajun seasoning.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add zucchini or bell peppers.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked pasta bake (covered tightly) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot (for pasta)
Large skillet or sauté pan
Whisk
Baking dish (9×13 inches)
Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh mushrooms provide a richer flavor and texture.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, it will make the sauce a bit lighter but still creamy.

Q4: What other pasta shapes work well?
Penne, rigatoni, rotini, or shells — all hold sauce beautifully.

Q5: Can I add cheese on top after baking?
Yes! Add a sprinkle of extra cheese right before serving for an even creamier finish.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Bake is the epitome of comfort and flavor — tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy, cheesy sauce baked to perfection. It’s filling, cozy, and irresistibly delicious.

Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting guests, this dish brings everyone to the table with smiles. With its rich flavor, simple prep, and beautiful presentation, this pasta bake is bound to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.