Chicken Tetrazzini – Creamy Baked Pasta Classic
📝 Description
Chicken Tetrazzini is a rich, comforting baked pasta dish made with tender chicken, mushrooms, and spaghetti tossed in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. The golden, bubbly top and savory flavor make it a timeless favorite.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Pasta & Filling:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti (or linguine)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1½ cups mushrooms (sliced)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or half & half for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For Topping:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Prepare Sauce:
- In a large pan, heat butter + olive oil.
- Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and cook until softened.
- Make Cream Base:
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream.
- Cook until thickened.
- Add Cheese & Seasoning:
Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and herbs. - Combine:
Add cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Mix well. - Assemble & Bake:
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with butter + Parmesan and sprinkle on top.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Time Required
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~50 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 6 people
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
- Add peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Don’t overcook pasta—it will cook more in the oven.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar for variation.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey for chicken (great for leftovers).
- Whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier version.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Benefits
- High in protein from chicken and cheese
- Comfort food energy from carbs
- Mushrooms provide antioxidants and vitamins
- Can be customized with vegetables for added nutrients
Q & A
Q1: Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time?
✔️ Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Q2: Can I freeze it?
✔️ Absolutely. Freeze before baking for best results.
Q3: What pasta works best?
✔️ Spaghetti, linguine, or even penne works well.
Q4: How do I make it lighter?
✔️ Use low-fat milk and reduce cheese quantity.
Q5: Why is my sauce too thick?
✔️ Add a little extra broth or milk to loosen it.