Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake)

A delicious Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake) is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s great for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this delightful recipe that warms the heart and pleases the taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Flavorful: The rich combination of cream and chicken stock creates a sauce that enhances every bite.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily substitute ingredients—try different types of pasta or add your favorite vegetables!
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to whip up.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dish will impress friends and family alike with its comforting flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything ready ensures you can focus on creating this tasty dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking dish (23 x 33cm / 9 x 13)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for cooking the pasta and making the creamy sauce efficiently.
• Baking dish: Perfect size for baking your Chicken Tetrazzini evenly, ensuring a golden top layer.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake), you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 500g / 1lb spaghetti or other long pasta, cooked per packet (penne, macaroni, ziti ok too)

For the Chicken & Sauce

• 2 tbsp (30g) butter
• 500g / 1lb chicken thighs, skinless boneless
• 4 tbsp (60g) butter, unsalted
• 500g / 1lb mushrooms, sliced 1/2 cm / 1/5 thick
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk, any fat, any type
• 1 cup cream, heavy / thickened (sub more milk)
• 2 cups chicken stock/broth, low sodium (or water + 2 stock cubes)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups cheese, shredded (cheddar, jack, colby – not mozzarella)

How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake)

Step 1: Sear Chicken

1. Melt 2 tbsp butter in a large pot over high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Cook for about 1.5 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip the chicken pieces, season again with salt and pepper.
5. Cook for another minute until they are golden; remove from heat onto a plate. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce & Pasta

1. Rest the seared chicken for about five minutes before chopping it into small pieces or shredding it.
2. Preheat your oven to 160°C / 325°F.
3. In the same pot used for chicken, melt an additional 4 tbsp butter over high heat.
4. Add mushrooms; cook them for approximately four minutes until they begin to soften but are not yet golden brown.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Thicken Sauce

1. Stir in minced garlic and chopped onion; cook for about three minutes until mushrooms are golden brown.
2. Add a pinch of salt and pepper halfway through cooking to enhance flavor.
3. Lower heat to medium; sprinkle flour into the mixture while stirring continuously for about thirty seconds.
4. Gradually add milk while stirring until it thickens slightly but remains pourable.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

1. Pour in chicken stock, cream, remaining salt, and black pepper; stir well and allow heating until sauce thickens enough to coat back of a spoon.
2. Turn off the stove; mix in half of the shredded cheese until melted smoothly into the sauce.
3. Fold in cooked pasta along with chopped chicken; toss everything together gently.

Step 5: Bake Your Tetrazzini

1. Transfer mixture into a baking dish, smoothing out the surface evenly.
2. Top with remaining cheese before placing it in preheated oven.
3. Bake for approximately twenty-five minutes until golden brown and bubbly on top.

Serve immediately while hot! Enjoy your delectable Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake) that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake)

Serving Chicken Tetrazzini is an opportunity to get creative and make the meal even more enjoyable. This creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience with a few thoughtful serving suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light green salad complements the richness of the dish. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette.

Add Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers work well.

Offer Extra Cheese On Top

• For cheese lovers, offering additional shredded cheese on top allows guests to customize their servings for extra creaminess.

Serve with a Lemon Wedge

• A wedge of lemon can brighten up each bite. Squeezing fresh lemon juice adds a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness.

Accompany with Soup

• A light soup, such as a vegetable or minestrone, can serve as an excellent starter before enjoying the main dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake)

Perfecting your Chicken Tetrazzini involves a few simple techniques that elevate its flavor and texture. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out just right every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality cheese for optimal flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook it al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before mixing in the pasta to adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses like gouda or fontina for unique flavors and textures.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake when ready for easy entertaining.
• Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme sprinkle on top before serving enhance both presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake)

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Tetrazzini enriches your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this creamy dish well:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic, and seasonings before roasting until tender.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan adds crunch.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a bright contrast to creamy flavors.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness; consider using a vinegar-based dressing for balance.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze provides a refreshing appetizer.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries bring sweetness while adding a crispy texture alongside the main dish.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Perfectly grilled corn brushed with butter makes for a delightful summer side.
8. Mixed Vegetable Medley: A colorful mix of sautéed seasonal vegetables creates a vibrant addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake) to a new level of deliciousness.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow package instructions and cook until just al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Skipping the Resting Time for Chicken: Not allowing the chicken to rest after searing can result in dry meat. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting or shredding.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste your sauce throughout preparation and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well and can affect flavor. Opt for good quality shredded cheese like cheddar or jack for a creamy finish.
• Not Checking Sauce Consistency: A sauce that’s too thick or too thin can ruin the dish. Aim for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon before combining with other ingredients.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Tetrazzini in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake)

• Place cooled Tetrazzini in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake)

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Tetrazzini that can help you prepare this dish perfectly.

How do I make my Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake) healthier?

You can use whole grain pasta and reduce the amount of cream used, substituting with more milk or broth.

Can I customize my Chicken Tetrazzini recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or try different cheeses for varied flavors.

What type of chicken works best in Chicken Tetrazzini?

Skinless boneless chicken thighs provide juiciness, but you can also use breast meat if preferred.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Tetrazzini?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional hour for cooking, totaling around 75 minutes.

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute spaghetti with penne, macaroni, or ziti based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Tetrazzini (creamy chicken mushroom pasta bake) is a delightful comfort food that combines creamy textures with savory flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your family’s tastes. Whether you’re using different proteins or adding extra veggies, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!