Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Family Dinners

Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dining table. This creamy, cheesy pasta bake is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that has stood the test of time. Originating in the early 20th century, this dish was named after the famous Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, who was known for her love of rich and indulgent foods. Over the years, Chicken Tetrazzini has become a beloved staple in many households, cherished for its creamy texture and savory taste.

What makes Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake so irresistible is its perfect blend of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious sauce that envelops every bite. The convenience of this dish is another reason why it has captured the hearts of many; it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love how this recipe allows for creativity, as you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Join me as we dive into the world of Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake, where comfort food meets culinary delight!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or fettuccine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. 2. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. I like to drizzle a little olive oil over it to prevent sticking while I prepare the sauce.

Making the Sauce

3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. 4. Next, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture. 5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. 6. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes. 7. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, shredded chicken, frozen peas, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The sauce should be creamy and well-seasoned.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken sauce. Make sure every strand of pasta is coated with the delicious sauce. This is where the magic happens, and the flavors meld together beautifully!

Assembling the Bake

9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 10. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. 11. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta. This will create a lovely cheesy crust as it bakes. 12. If you like a bit of crunch, you can also sprinkle breadcrumbs over the Parmesan cheese. This step is optional but adds a delightful texture to the dish. 13. Finally, top everything off with the shredded mozzarella cheese. I love the gooey, melty goodness that mozzarella brings to this dish!

Baking the Tetrazzini

14. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t over-brown; if it does, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil. 15. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the sauce to settle and makes serving easier.

Serving the Chicken Tetrazzini

16. Before serving, I like to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. It also adds a nice flavor contrast to the creamy dish. 17. Serve the Chicken Tetrazzini hot, and watch as everyone digs in! This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread on the side.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

18. If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. 19. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake recipe, I can’t emphasize enough why it’s a must-try for your next family dinner or gathering. This dish is not only a comforting classic but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Whether you prefer a creamy sauce with a hint of garlic or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that extra pop of flavor, the possibilities are endless. You can even swap out the chicken for turkey or add in your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to make it your own. Serving suggestions are equally exciting! Pair this pasta bake with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top before baking for that golden, bubbly finish. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake a try. I promise it will become a staple in your recipe repertoire, just as it has in mine. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy baking! Print