Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: chicken tetrazzini pasta bake! This dish is a warm hug in a casserole dish, packed with tender shredded chicken and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all enveloped in a creamy, dreamy sauce. The blend of flavors is just divine, and when it comes out of the oven bubbling and golden brown, it’s like a little slice of heaven. The savory notes from the chicken and mushrooms combined with the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a symphony of taste that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, this is the kind of meal that makes you want to gather your loved ones around the table, share stories, and dig in together. You can’t help but smile with every bite!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for this!)
- 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked (Perfectly al dente, of course!)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (Fresh or canned, whichever you prefer!)
- 1 cup chicken broth (Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (This is where the creaminess comes from!)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor!)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (I like to use panko for that extra crunch!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (This will help everything brown beautifully!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (A little extra flavor boost!)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (For that savory depth!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Don’t skimp on this for flavor!)
How to Prepare Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, this step is crucial! Preheating ensures that your chicken tetrazzini pasta bake cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden brown crust on top. While that’s heating up, we can get everything else ready.
Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, sliced mushrooms, chicken broth, and heavy cream. It’s like a big warm hug of flavors! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and season generously with salt and pepper. Then, mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want to make sure every strand of spaghetti and piece of chicken is coated in that creamy goodness. If it feels a little too thick, don’t worry; that’s just how we like it!
Transfer and Top
Next, it’s time to transfer this delicious mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly—no need to be too precise, just get it nice and cozy in there! Now, let’s take that grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle it over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs. I like to use panko for an extra crunch! Finally, drizzle those 2 tablespoons of olive oil over everything to help it brown beautifully.
Baking Time
Pop that baking dish into the oven and let it work its magic for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly—oh, the smell will be heavenly! Once it’s out, let it sit for a few minutes to cool down. This is *so* hard to do, but your taste buds will thank you later when the flavors have a moment to settle.
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken tetrazzini pasta bake turns out absolutely perfect, here are my tried-and-true tips! First, don’t rush the cooking of your spaghetti—getting it perfectly al dente will give your dish that delightful texture and prevent it from becoming mushy in the bake. Secondly, if you can, use fresh mushrooms; they add a wonderful depth of flavor! If you’re short on time, leftover rotisserie chicken not only saves you effort, but it also packs in great flavor.
Another tip is to taste your mixture before transferring it to the dish. If it needs a little more salt or pepper, don’t hesitate to adjust it! And when it comes to the breadcrumbs, I swear by panko for that extra crunch you’ll want on top. Finally, remember to let it cool for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven; it helps the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more enjoyable. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into this delicious chicken tetrazzini pasta bake, I just want to remind you that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just typical values. On average, you’re looking at about 450 calories per serving, with around 25g of fat, 25g of protein, and 40g of carbohydrates. It’s a comforting meal that’s still mindful of your calorie intake, especially if you’re using low-calorie ingredients. So, enjoy every creamy bite without the guilt! Just remember, the joy of cooking and sharing this dish far outweighs the numbers on a label. Happy eating!
Variations of Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up your chicken tetrazzini pasta bake! Here are some of my favorite variations that keep the essence of the dish while adding a little twist:
- Veggie Delight: Toss in some frozen peas, diced bell peppers, or spinach for a pop of color and added nutrition. You can even sneak in some chopped broccoli if you’d like!
- Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheeses! Try adding mozzarella for that gooey texture or a sprinkle of smoked gouda for a unique flavor. Just be sure to keep some Parmesan for that classic touch!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your dish to a whole new level! Chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary mixed in before baking will add a fresh aroma and flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little on top before serving for extra flair!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix. It’ll give your casserole a delightful warmth that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce!
- Seafood Surprise: Looking to switch things up? Substitute some of the chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist! Just be cautious with the cooking time to ensure everything stays tender.
These variations are not only easy to throw together but also a fantastic way to make the dish your own. So, get creative and enjoy the process—your taste buds will thank you later!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your chicken tetrazzini pasta bake, there are a few side dishes that can really elevate the experience! Trust me, pairing this creamy delight with the right accompaniments can turn your meal into a special occasion.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of warm, crusty garlic bread! Its buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for scooping up any extra sauce and adds a comforting touch to your meal.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a delightful contrast to the richness of the pasta bake. The crispness of the veggies adds a refreshing crunch!
- Steamed Vegetables: Consider serving some lightly steamed broccoli or green beans on the side. They’re not only healthy but also add a vibrant pop of color to your plate!
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: If you’re feeling a little adventurous, roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper make for a fantastic savory side that complements the flavors of the bake beautifully.
- Classic Caesar Salad: For a bit of a twist, a Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the chicken tetrazzini. It’s a classic for a reason!
These simple sides not only complement the creamy, savory notes of the chicken tetrazzini pasta bake but also make for a well-rounded, satisfying meal. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and enjoy every delicious bite together!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to swap it out for penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference. Just make sure to cook it al dente, as it’ll continue cooking in the oven.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through—it’s just as delicious the next day!
Can I freeze chicken tetrazzini pasta bake?
Yes! Just let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with a mix of milk and butter for a similar richness. For a lighter option, half-and-half or evaporated milk works well, too!
Can I add more vegetables?
Of course! Adding veggies like peas, zucchini, or bell peppers not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a nice texture. Just be sure to chop them small so they cook evenly in the bake.
For more information on the nutritional benefits of mushrooms, check out this Healthline article. You can also learn about the benefits of using rotisserie chicken in recipes here.
Print
Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake: 5 Steps to Comfort Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Chicken tetrazzini pasta bake is a creamy and savory dish made with chicken and pasta, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, mushrooms, chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for a quicker meal.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or bell peppers.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken tetrazzini, pasta bake, chicken pasta, casserole
