Get ready to indulge in a comforting dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your dinner table! Our Chicken Mushroom Tortellini Bake is a delightful combination of tender cheese tortellini, juicy chicken, and savory mushrooms, all enveloped in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. This hearty casserole is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to prepare, making it the perfect weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and 50 minutes of your time, you can create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- If using uncooked chicken, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet over medium heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let cool slightly and dice into small, uniform pieces.
- Clean and slice mushrooms into thin, even slices. Sauté mushrooms in a small pan with a touch of olive oil until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions, typically in salted boiling water for 3-5 minutes until they float and are al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked tortellini, diced chicken, sliced mushrooms, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Gently mix to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the dish.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the tortellini mixture, covering the entire surface.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and slightly golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the dish to set and cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Pre-cook the Chicken: If you're using raw chicken, seasoning it well before cooking will enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Consider marinating it for extra depth!
- Sauté the Mushrooms: Don’t skip the step of sautéing the mushrooms! This not only adds a beautiful golden color but also intensifies their flavor, bringing a rich earthiness to the bake.
- Perfect Tortellini: Make sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta in the final bake. Rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Layering is Key: When transferring the mixture to the baking dish, ensure an even distribution of ingredients for a balanced bite every time.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Adding a blend of mozzarella and provolone or even a sprinkle of feta can elevate the flavor profile.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil not only adds a pop of color but also freshens up the dish with a burst of flavor.Enjoy creating this delicious Chicken Mushroom Tortellini Bake, and watch your family and friends rave about your culinary skills!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
