Dump-and-Bake Chicken and Mushroom Casserole
You don't even have to boil the pasta or pre-cook the chicken! For a quick and easy dinner recipe with just 5 minutes of prep, you can't beat a Dump-and-Bake Chicken and Mushroom Casserole!
You don't even have to boil the pasta or pre-cook the chicken! For a quick and easy dinner recipe with just 5 minutes of prep, you can't beat a Dump-and-Bake Chicken and Mushroom Casserole!
- â½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
- â¼ teaspoon pepper
- â¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- â½ teaspoon dried thyme
- â½ cup milk
- â¼ cup sour cream
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (not diluted) (i
- â½ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- â½ lb. raw boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cups dry uncooked penne pasta (about 5 ounces dry)
- â½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
- optional garnish: grated parmesan cheese and chop
- Carbohydrate 0.582294286160741 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.0603597735654427 g
- Fiber 0.177528745780714 g
- Protein 0.548563824462405 g
- Saturated Fat 0.00763373606857069 g
- Serving Size 1 1 people (18g)
- Sodium 0.887643728903568 mg
- Sugar 0.404765540380027 g
- Trans Fat 0.0280495418333528 g
- Calories 4 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
- Spray an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together condensed soup, milk, chicken broth, thyme, salt, garlic powder and pepper.
- Stir in mushrooms, raw chicken, and uncooked pasta.
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes (until pasta is almost tender).
- Remove foil and give everything a stir in the dish.
- Stir in sour cream, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese over top.
- Return to the oven and bake, uncovered, for 5 more minutes, or until pasta is tender, chicken is cooked through, and cheese is melted.
- Let the dish stand for about 5 minutes before serving.
Dump-and-Bake Chicken and Mushroom Casserole: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping a semblance of order in the house often leaves me with little energy for elaborate cooking. That's where this Dump-and-Bake Chicken and Mushroom Casserole comes in. It's a lifesaver! Seriously, the name says it all: dump everything in a dish, bake, and enjoy. No pre-boiling pasta, no pre-cooking chicken – just pure, unadulterated convenience.
I discovered this recipe a few months ago while frantically searching for a quick and easy weeknight dinner option. I was skeptical at first. Could a casserole truly be this simple? The answer, my friends, is a resounding yes! The flavors are surprisingly rich and satisfying, far exceeding my expectations for a “dump-and-bake” recipe. The creamy mushroom soup base provides a comforting, savory foundation, while the tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta add a delightful textural contrast. Even my picky eaters, who usually turn up their noses at anything remotely resembling "healthy," gobble this up without complaint.
The best part? The minimal prep time. Five minutes, tops! While the casserole is baking, I can finally catch up on emails, help with homework, or just steal a few moments of peace and quiet. It's the perfect recipe for those days when you feel overwhelmed and short on time, yet still crave a delicious, homemade meal. The convenience factor alone makes it a staple in my weekly meal rotation. The dish is also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, add vegetables like peas or carrots, or switch up the cheese. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond the Weeknight: This casserole isn't just a weeknight wonder; it’s surprisingly adaptable for various occasions. Imagine bringing this to a potluck – it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Its comforting flavors make it ideal for cozy family dinners, particularly during colder months. And, let's be honest, even a simple weeknight dinner feels more special when it's served in a nice casserole dish, garnished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Tips for Success: While the recipe itself is remarkably straightforward, here are a few tips to ensure casserole perfection:
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the pasta. It should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and prevents a messy, soupy result.
- Get creative with your toppings! Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added crunch.
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken and Mushroom Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple, delicious meals. It's a recipe that proves that even on the busiest of days, you can still enjoy a comforting, flavorful, and homemade dinner without sacrificing precious time or energy. So, next time you're looking for a quick and easy dinner option, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
