Chicken Tetrazzini Bake Quick and Tasty Recipe

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Are you craving a comforting meal that’s both quick and delicious? Look no further! This Chicken Tetrazzini Bake recipe combines tender chicken, pasta, and veggies in a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process, share tips for tasty variations, and show you how to store leftovers. Let’s get cooking and make a meal that everyone will love!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting and Creamy: This cheesy chicken tetrazzini bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken with a rich cream sauce that warms you up from the inside out.
  2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you have guests over.
  3. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies or using leftover turkey instead of chicken, making it a great recipe for any occasion.
  4. Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and gooey cheese on top creates a delightful texture that everyone will love.

Ingredients

To make Chicken Tetrazzini Bake, gather these key ingredients. Each one plays a part in creating a tasty dish.

List of Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained

– 1 cup sliced mushrooms

– 1 small onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup frozen peas

– 3 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon black pepper

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Each ingredient adds flavor and makes this dish special. The chicken gives protein, while the pasta adds heartiness. Mushrooms and peas bring texture and color. Cheese creates that creamy richness we all love. Don’t skip the parsley; it brightens the dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your dish cooks evenly. Lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil to stop sticking.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add one small diced onion and two minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. This step builds a great base for flavor.

Cook Mushrooms

Next, add one cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes. Stir them occasionally, so they get tender. You want them to release their juices and become flavorful.

Combine Ingredients

Now, stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, one cup of frozen peas, three cups of chicken broth, and one cup of heavy cream. Add one teaspoon of dried thyme, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Increase the heat a little and bring the mix to a gentle simmer. Let those flavors blend well.

Mix in Pasta

Once the mixture simmers, gently fold in 8 ounces of cooked spaghetti and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything well. You want the pasta and chicken to be evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Carefully pour the tetrazzini mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. This helps it cook uniformly.

Prepare Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the remaining grated Parmesan with one cup of shredded mozzarella and half a cup of breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this cheesy mix evenly over the top of the tetrazzini. It will give a nice crispy finish.

Bake

Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and bubbling edges. This means it’s ready!

Cool and Garnish

After baking, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Enjoy your Chicken Tetrazzini Bake!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Chicken Tetrazzini Bake

To make your Chicken Tetrazzini Bake truly shine, focus on the flavors. Use fresh garlic and onion for a strong base. Sauté until the onion is soft and sweet. This step builds a great flavor. Also, let your chicken sit in the sauce for a few minutes before baking. This lets the chicken soak up all the tasty goodness. For a creamy texture, don’t skip the heavy cream. It adds richness. Lastly, bake it until the top is golden and bubbly. This gives you a crunchy finish that everyone loves.

Substitutions for Ingredients

You can easily swap some ingredients. If you don’t have chicken, use turkey or even mushrooms for a veggie twist. For pasta, any type works. Use penne or fettuccine if you prefer. No heavy cream? Use milk or a dairy-free option. If you want a lighter dish, you can reduce the cheese. You can also skip the breadcrumbs for a lower-carb meal. These changes help fit your taste and diet.

Recommended Kitchen Tools

To make this dish, you need a few simple tools. A large skillet helps with sautéing the onions and garlic. A 3-quart baking dish is perfect for the oven. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything well. For easy serving, have bowls ready. A sharp knife helps chop the parsley for garnish. With these tools, you’re set to create a lovely Chicken Tetrazzini Bake.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand, saving both time and resources.
  2. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to suit your taste or use what you have in your fridge.
  3. Make It Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it from cold, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  4. Check for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add more heavy cream or a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor.

Variations

Vegetarian Version

You can make a great vegetarian version of Chicken Tetrazzini. Start by swapping the chicken for a protein-rich option like cooked lentils or chickpeas. These will add texture and flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a rich base. You can also add in tofu for extra protein. This dish still tastes creamy and satisfying.

Using Different Pasta Types

While the recipe calls for spaghetti, you can use any pasta you like. Penne or fusilli work great too. Just make sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente. This will help it hold its shape during baking. Different shapes may add a fun twist to your meal. Plus, it can change the way the sauce clings to the pasta.

Adding Extra Vegetables

Adding extra vegetables is a smart way to boost nutrition. You can toss in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. These veggies cook quickly and add lots of color and flavor. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a tasty base. You can also use frozen mixed veggies if you’re short on time. This is a simple way to make the dish more hearty and healthy.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover Chicken Tetrazzini in the fridge. Use an airtight container for best results. It stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, just scoop out a portion and warm it in the microwave or oven. Make sure it heats all the way through.

Freezing Chicken Tetrazzini

If you want to freeze it, let it cool first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Chicken Tetrazzini freezes well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This way, the texture stays nice.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the tetrazzini in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Check it often to make sure it’s heated well. Enjoy your meal!

FAQs

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken. It adds great flavor and saves time. Just shred the chicken and mix it in with the other ingredients. This makes the dish even quicker to prepare.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Chicken Tetrazzini gluten-free, swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Also, check the chicken broth and breadcrumbs to ensure they are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options, so read the labels carefully.

What can I serve with Chicken Tetrazzini Bake?

You can serve Chicken Tetrazzini Bake with a side salad or garlic bread. A fresh green salad adds crunch and balances the dish’s creaminess. Garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.

This blog post guides you through making delicious Chicken Tetrazzini. I covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to perfect your dish. You can even explore variations and storage options. My final thought is simple: Chicken Tetrazzini is a versatile, tasty meal for everyone. You can impress family and friends with ease. Enjoy cooking and sharing this dis

To make Chicken Tetrazzini Bake, gather these key ingredients. Each one plays a part in creating a tasty dish. - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained - 1 cup sliced mushrooms - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup frozen peas - 3 cups chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Each ingredient adds flavor and makes this dish special. The chicken gives protein, while the pasta adds heartiness. Mushrooms and peas bring texture and color. Cheese creates that creamy richness we all love. Don't skip the parsley; it brightens the dish! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your dish cooks evenly. Lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil to stop sticking. In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add one small diced onion and two minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. This step builds a great base for flavor. Next, add one cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes. Stir them occasionally, so they get tender. You want them to release their juices and become flavorful. Now, stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, one cup of frozen peas, three cups of chicken broth, and one cup of heavy cream. Add one teaspoon of dried thyme, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Increase the heat a little and bring the mix to a gentle simmer. Let those flavors blend well. Once the mixture simmers, gently fold in 8 ounces of cooked spaghetti and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything well. You want the pasta and chicken to be evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Carefully pour the tetrazzini mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. This helps it cook uniformly. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining grated Parmesan with one cup of shredded mozzarella and half a cup of breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this cheesy mix evenly over the top of the tetrazzini. It will give a nice crispy finish. Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and bubbling edges. This means it's ready! After baking, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Enjoy your Chicken Tetrazzini Bake! To make your Chicken Tetrazzini Bake truly shine, focus on the flavors. Use fresh garlic and onion for a strong base. Sauté until the onion is soft and sweet. This step builds a great flavor. Also, let your chicken sit in the sauce for a few minutes before baking. This lets the chicken soak up all the tasty goodness. For a creamy texture, don’t skip the heavy cream. It adds richness. Lastly, bake it until the top is golden and bubbly. This gives you a crunchy finish that everyone loves. You can easily swap some ingredients. If you don’t have chicken, use turkey or even mushrooms for a veggie twist. For pasta, any type works. Use penne or fettuccine if you prefer. No heavy cream? Use milk or a dairy-free option. If you want a lighter dish, you can reduce the cheese. You can also skip the breadcrumbs for a lower-carb meal. These changes help fit your taste and diet. To make this dish, you need a few simple tools. A large skillet helps with sautéing the onions and garlic. A 3-quart baking dish is perfect for the oven. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything well. For easy serving, have bowls ready. A sharp knife helps chop the parsley for garnish. With these tools, you’re set to create a lovely Chicken Tetrazzini Bake. Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand, saving both time and resources. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to suit your taste or use what you have in your fridge. Make It Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it from cold, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Check for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add more heavy cream or a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor. {{image_4}} You can make a great vegetarian version of Chicken Tetrazzini. Start by swapping the chicken for a protein-rich option like cooked lentils or chickpeas. These will add texture and flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a rich base. You can also add in tofu for extra protein. This dish still tastes creamy and satisfying. While the recipe calls for spaghetti, you can use any pasta you like. Penne or fusilli work great too. Just make sure to cook the pasta until it's al dente. This will help it hold its shape during baking. Different shapes may add a fun twist to your meal. Plus, it can change the way the sauce clings to the pasta. Adding extra vegetables is a smart way to boost nutrition. You can toss in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. These veggies cook quickly and add lots of color and flavor. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a tasty base. You can also use frozen mixed veggies if you're short on time. This is a simple way to make the dish more hearty and healthy. You can keep leftover Chicken Tetrazzini in the fridge. Use an airtight container for best results. It stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, just scoop out a portion and warm it in the microwave or oven. Make sure it heats all the way through. If you want to freeze it, let it cool first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Chicken Tetrazzini freezes well for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This way, the texture stays nice. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the tetrazzini in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Check it often to make sure it's heated well. Enjoy your meal! Yes, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken. It adds great flavor and saves time. Just shred the chicken and mix it in with the other ingredients. This makes the dish even quicker to prepare. To make Chicken Tetrazzini gluten-free, swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Also, check the chicken broth and breadcrumbs to ensure they are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options, so read the labels carefully. You can serve Chicken Tetrazzini Bake with a side salad or garlic bread. A fresh green salad adds crunch and balances the dish's creaminess. Garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold. This blog post guides you through making delicious Chicken Tetrazzini. I covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to perfect your dish. You can even explore variations and storage options. My final thought is simple: Chicken Tetrazzini is a versatile, tasty meal for everyone. You can impress family and friends with ease. Enjoy cooking and sharing this dish!

Cheesy Chicken Tetrazzini Bake

A creamy and cheesy chicken pasta bake with mushrooms and peas, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  • Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender.
  • Stir in the shredded chicken, frozen peas, chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Once simmering, gently fold in the cooked spaghetti and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine.
  • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the remaining grated Parmesan cheese with the shredded mozzarella and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the top.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  • Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
Keyword bake, cheesy, chicken, comfort food, pasta

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