Bring this casserole to your next gathering without worrying about the calories. You don't need to worry about the taste. The same great taste is there, but this is a much healthier version of the old recipe.
1 lb. whole-wheat linguine or pasta of choice
1 1/2 lb. cooked chicken breast, shredded, about 3-4 c.
16 oz. packaged sliced mushrooms, cleaned
2 1/2 c. low-sodium chicken stock/broth
1 c. 2% milk
1 c. onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2/3 c. all-purpose flour
2/3 c. low fat Parmesan cheese, divided
1/2 c. dry white wine
1/3 c. low-fat cream cheese
1 T. olive oil
1 1/2 T. unsalted butter
salt, to taste
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 c. toasted almonds, for garnish, optional
garnish with chopped parsley, if desired
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to boil; cook pasta until al dente.
In a large pan or skillet, add the olive oil over medium-high heat; swirl pan to evenly coat the bottom.
Add mushrooms to pan; saute until softened, 3-4 minutes. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent and garlic fragrant. Pour in white wine, reduce heat; cook until reduced.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in flour to create a roux.
Once smooth and a dark, golden color, slowly pour in milk and chicken stock, stirring continuously.
Bring sauce to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 7 minutes, or until thickened.
Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese and cream cheese, salt and pepper; stir well.
Carefully pour sauce into mushrooms and onions; add pasta and shredded chicken. Toss to combine well.
Pour mixture into prepared baking dish; bake for 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through and bubbly.
Remove from oven; let rest 5 minutes.
If desired, garnish with toasted almonds and/or chopped parsley. Serve hot.
6-8 servings