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Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spaghetti Bake Recipe

If you’re craving a dinner that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, then you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spaghetti Bake Recipe. I absolutely love how this dish balances tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone to the table with smiles and seconds almost guaranteed. Let me walk you through everything you need to know so you can recreate this cozy pasta bake at home with confidence!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Super Creamy Sauce: The rich, garlicky cream sauce ties everything together perfectly, making every bite indulgent yet balanced.
  • Simple but Flavorful Ingredients: With everyday pantry staples and fresh mushrooms and chicken, it’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests.
  • Flexible and Adaptable: You can swap pasta types, use gluten free flour, or add your favorite herbs easily.
  • Family Friendly: My kids and their friends go crazy for this dish, which is always a win in my book!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a role in crafting the perfect creamy chicken mushroom spaghetti bake. I’ve found that using fresh mushrooms and good quality chicken really elevates the dish. Plus, a bit of butter and heavy cream add that signature velvety texture you want in a classic pasta bake.

  • Spaghetti noodles: You can use whatever pasta you like here—even gluten free pasta works great.
  • Butter: Divided so you get buttery mushroom flavor and a luscious sauce base.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic packs the savory punch that makes this so aromatic.
  • Baby mushrooms: Sliced thin for even cooking and that lovely umami earthiness.
  • Cooked chicken: Chopped into bite-sized pieces; leftover chicken or rotisserie works wonders here.
  • All purpose flour: This helps thicken the sauce. Brown rice flour is perfect if you want gluten free.
  • Chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce without overpowering it.
  • Heavy cream: The secret to that dreamy, creamy texture every pasta bake needs.
  • Kosher salt & black pepper: Essentials for seasoning just right.
  • Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese: Adds a salty, savory finish that pulls it all together.
  • Fresh Italian parsley: For a bright, fresh garnish that cuts through the richness.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love making this creamy chicken mushroom spaghetti bake recipe my own by switching up flavors or catering to dietary needs. Feel free to experiment; it’s all about making a dish that suits your taste and lifestyle perfectly.

  • Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and double up on mushrooms or add cooked lentils for protein—I’ve done this and got rave reviews!
  • Gluten free: Use gluten free pasta and substitute brown rice flour for thickening. It’s just as luscious.
  • Herb variations: Add thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce for a flavor twist I discovered after several tries.
  • Cheese swap: Try mozzarella or fontina for a gooier cheesy bake; my family especially liked this on a cozy night.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta to perfection

Start by boiling your spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. I always salt the water well so the pasta is flavorful from the inside out. Once cooked, drain and set aside – a quick tip is to toss them with a tiny drizzle of olive oil to keep them from sticking if you’re not throwing them in the sauce right away.

Step 2: Sauté garlic and mushrooms for rich flavor

In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic first to gently toast it, releasing gorgeous aromas, then toss in the sliced baby mushrooms. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms turn a lovely golden brown—this step adds a depth of flavor that really sets this recipe apart. Once browned, stir in the cooked chicken and toss everything together so it’s well coated.

Step 3: Create the creamy sauce base

In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour steadily to form a smooth roux—this will thicken your sauce beautifully without lumps. Slowly add the chicken broth while whisking continuously. Raise the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. After about 2 minutes, add the heavy cream and keep stirring; let it simmer gently for 8-10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get it just right.

Step 4: Assemble and bake

Pour the cooked spaghetti into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Layer the chicken and mushroom mixture over the top, then generously pour the creamy sauce all over to coat everything thoroughly. Finish by sprinkling shredded Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese evenly on top. Bake at 350°F for around 20 minutes until you see the sauce bubbling and the cheese has melted into a golden, irresistible topping.

Step 5: Finishing touches

Once out of the oven, give the bake a gentle stir to combine the layers, then sprinkle with freshly chopped Italian parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Now, grab a fork and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

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Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spaghetti Bake Recipe

  • Don’t Overcook Pasta: I learned the hard way that slightly undercooked spaghetti holds up best during baking without getting mushy.
  • Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh baby mushrooms caramelize better, which means more flavor in every bite.
  • Slow Simmer Your Sauce: Taking the time to gently simmer thickens the sauce nicely and deepens the flavor.
  • Season Gradually: Especially if you’re using store-bought broth, taste before adding salt to avoid over-seasoning.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spaghetti Bake Recipe

A white plate holds a serving of spaghetti pasta with three main layers: smooth, pale cream sauce coated noodles form the base, mixed with chunky pieces of light beige chicken scattered evenly, and dark brown sliced mushrooms placed throughout. Small green herbs are sprinkled on top for color, along with thin shreds of white cheese. A silver fork with a wooden handle rests on the right side, its prongs partly buried in the noodles. The plate sits on a rustic wooden surface with a colorful floral cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I always go with fresh chopped Italian parsley—it adds a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness beautifully. Sometimes, I toss a little extra Parmesan on top just before serving for that irresistible salty touch.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette or tomato bruschetta for a fresh counterbalance. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans also complement the creamy pasta bake perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this in individual ramekins for a charming touch—each guest gets their own bubbling, cheesy pasta bake. It also looks fantastic straight from a rustic cast-iron skillet for a cozy, family-style dinner vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover creamy chicken mushroom spaghetti bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find that reheating in the oven or microwave with a splash of cream or broth helps revive that luscious sauce texture perfectly.

Freezing

This bake freezes beautifully! Just be sure to cool completely before wrapping tightly with foil or plastic wrap. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake until warmed through and bubbly again.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat this dish without drying it out is by baking it at 325°F covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes, adding a little extra cream or broth if it looks dry. This keeps the sauce silky and the chicken tender.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of pasta for the Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spaghetti Bake Recipe?

    Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully, you can swap in penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you like. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure it’s al dente before baking to prevent a mushy outcome.

  2. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy free?

    Yes! Replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, use coconut or oat cream instead of heavy cream, and opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives. The flavor and texture will differ slightly but still delicious!

  3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

    Definitely. You can assemble the bake in the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.

  4. What should I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

    If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. If too thin, continue simmering gently until it thickens, whisking frequently to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spaghetti Bake Recipe holds a special place in my heart as the go-to dish when I want both comfort and impressive flavor without fuss. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together, it never fails to please. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try—you might just find it becoming your new favorite, just like it did for me.

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Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spaghetti Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 83 reviews
  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spaghetti Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole featuring tender chicken, sautéed baby mushrooms, and spaghetti noodles smothered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Baked to golden perfection with melted Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or gathering.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles (or the pasta of your choice, gluten free works great)

Chicken and Mushroom Mixture

  • 5 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 3 large cloves garlic (minced)
  • 8 ounces baby mushrooms (sliced thin)
  • 3 cups cooked chicken (chopped small)

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (brown rice flour works great for gluten free)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust as needed if using store-bought chicken broth)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Topping

  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley (chopped)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and thinly sliced mushrooms, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add Chicken: Toss the cooked, chopped chicken into the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic, coating it well with the butter mixture. Remove the skillet from heat.
  4. Make the Cream Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour until smooth, then slowly add chicken broth while continuing to whisk. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2 minutes, then stir in heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently on low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Assemble the Bake: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the cooked pasta evenly. Layer the chicken and mushroom mixture over the pasta. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top, making sure everything is well coated.
  6. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the top of the dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese has melted and slightly browned.
  7. Garnish and Serve: After baking, stir the casserole gently to combine and sprinkle fresh Italian parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • The BEST chicken tetrazzini recipe begins with chicken, mushrooms, and pasta tossed together with a creamy, garlicky sauce.
  • Use gluten-free pasta and brown rice flour to make this dish gluten free.
  • Adjust salt depending on the saltiness of your chicken broth.
  • Leftovers reheat well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To add a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan before baking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 384
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 576 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 71 mg

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