Chicken and Pasta Casserole

This delightful chicken and pasta casserole combines the comforting elements of tender chicken, colorful pasta, and earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes for a satisfying meal. The aroma of fresh basil, oregano, and garlic gives this dish an inviting fragrance, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The preparation involves a straightforward process of cooking the pasta and chicken, enhancing the flavors with a variety of herbs, and finishing it off with a baking session to create a golden crust. This dish is versatile, allowing for various substitutions and adjustments to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. With its tantalizing blend of ingredients, this recipe offers both nutrition and taste in a single dish. The casserole is topped with a generous layer of Parmesan, adding a rich, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce. The use of fresh and dried herbs balances the flavors, offering both freshness and depth. Whether you're an experienced chef or a novice cook, this chicken and pasta casserole is easy to prepare and guarantees a hearty, delicious meal. Enjoy it with a side of green salad or crusty bread for a complete culinary experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 400 g colorful pasta
• 400 g chicken breast fillets
• 250 g mushrooms
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 0.25 L milk
• 150 g sour cream
• 100 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 bunch fresh basil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp oil

Spices and Sauces

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 pinch grated nutmeg
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta as per package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Slice the mushrooms thinly. For uniform slices, consider using an egg slicer.
3. Cut the chicken breast fillets into strips and season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan and sauté the chicken pieces for approximately 5 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add the remaining oil and sauté the mushrooms for 5 minutes until golden. Add minced garlic and stir to combine.
6. Pluck the basil leaves from the stems and finely chop them.
7. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, and 50 g of Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and oregano.
8. Preheat the oven to 200°C (about 390°F) to get it ready for baking.
9. Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
10. Combine the cooked pasta, sautéed mushrooms, and chicken strips in a large bowl. Mix well before transferring to the prepared baking dish.
11. Pour the egg, milk, and cheese mixture over the pasta and chicken mixture, ensuring even distribution. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
12. Dot the top of the casserole with small pieces of butter to enhance browning.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil to prevent burning.

Tips

• **For a lighter version**, use low-fat milk and yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• If you prefer a crunchier top, mix breadcrumbs with the cheese for a crispy finish.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 700 per serving
• Protein: 45g
• Fats: 30g
• Carbs: 70g

Variations

• **Vegetarian Version** - Replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables like zucchini and broccoli.
• **Gluten-Free** - Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Pair with a glass of crisp white wine for an elegant dining experience.
• Add a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Best Places

• Chez Panisse - Renowned for its innovative dishes with fresh ingredients. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
• Noma - A fine dining restaurant with a focus on foraged ingredients. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Osteria Francescana - Known for its unique interpretations of Italian classics. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
• The French Laundry - Lavish tasting menus in a picturesque setting. Location: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, USA.
• El Celler de Can Roca - Skillful creations inspired by traditional recipes. Location: Can Sunyer 48, Girona, Spain.
• Per Se - Offers contemporary American cuisine with French influences. Location: 10 Columbus Cir, New York, USA.
• Le Bernardin - Celebrated for its fish and seafood dishes. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
• Mugaritz - Features avant-garde techniques in its dishes. Location: Aldura Aldea, 20, Errenteria, Spain.
• Mirazur - Nestled in the mountains with panoramic views. Location: 30 Av. Aristide Briand, Menton, France.
• The Ledbury - Combines classic British ingredients with modern twists. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, UK.