Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini – Classic Comfort Pasta Bake
Introduction Paragraph
Chicken Tetrazzini is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, baked pasta casserole loaded with tender shredded chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Finished with a buttery breadcrumb topping, it’s baked until bubbly and golden brown.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping, Chicken Tetrazzini brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving cozy leftovers, this dish checks every box.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: Serves 6
Ingredients List
Main Casserole:
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Topping:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step builds deep flavor into the sauce. - Create the Roux
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes. This forms the base of a smooth, creamy sauce and removes any raw flour taste. - Add Liquids and Simmer
Slowly whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in salt, pepper, thyme, and Parmesan cheese. Cook until thickened, about 5–6 minutes. - Combine with Chicken and Pasta
Add shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the creamy sauce. The noodles will soak up the flavor beautifully. - Assemble and Top
Transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle over the top. - Bake Until Golden
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Suggested Add-ons or Toppings List
- Add frozen peas or spinach for more veggies
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep
- Mix in mozzarella or fontina cheese
- Top with crispy fried onions for texture
- Drizzle with truffle oil before serving
Health Benefits Section
- Chicken – High in lean protein
- Mushrooms – Rich in antioxidants and B vitamins
- Whole milk and cream – Source of calcium and fat-soluble vitamins
- Parmesan cheese – Adds umami and protein
- Homemade version – Less sodium and preservatives than store-bought
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until hot.
Q: What pasta works best?
Spaghetti is traditional, but fettuccine, linguine, or egg noodles also work well.
Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
You can use dairy-free milk and vegan butter alternatives, though the texture will vary slightly.
Q: Can I substitute the chicken?
Yes! Turkey, canned tuna, or sautéed tofu can be great swaps depending on your needs.
Nutritional Information Table (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Net Carbs | 40 g |
Approximate values depending on brands and ingredients used.
Diet Tags or Labels
Comfort Food • High-Protein • Family Meal • Baked Dish • Weeknight Dinner • Freezer-Friendly
Conclusion
Chicken Tetrazzini is a timeless casserole that blends creamy, cheesy comfort with satisfying textures and rich flavor. It’s the kind of meal that draws people to the table and leaves no leftovers behind. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to dinner classic.
If you loved this recipe, save it to your board, share it with friends, or bake it again with your own twist!