Cheesy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta bake that delivers on flavor and warmth, look no further than Cheesy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini. This dish is the ultimate weeknight winner, combining tender shredded chicken, savory turkey bacon, and a luscious creamy sauce, all topped with ooey-gooey melted cheese. With tender mushrooms and a hint of herbs, this casserole brings classic Italian-American comfort food right to your table with ease. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

Cheesy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile—you can adapt it with different pasta shapes or swap ingredients to suit your pantry. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese adds rich, melty goodness that makes every bite irresistible. Plus, this dish comes together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. The baked finish creates a golden, bubbly crust that adds texture and visual appeal, elevating a humble pasta bake to something truly special.

This recipe is also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken. It’s hearty enough to serve as a standalone meal but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. And if you love dishes like the Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Pasta or Baked Chicken Carbonara Pasta, you’ll find this cheesy tetrazzini equally satisfying and comforting.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 2 cups cooked pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti) – perfectly al dente for baking
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – juicy and tender, the star protein of this dish
• 1 cup turkey bacon, chopped – adds smoky, savory flavor without overpowering
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – earthy and tender, balancing the richness
• 1/2 cup onion, diced – brings subtle sweetness and depth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and pungent, essential for flavor layering
• 2 cups chicken broth – forms the base of the creamy sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream – adds luscious creaminess and richness
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp and flavorful for a cheesy punch
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully, creating that perfect gooey texture
• 1 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – adds mild heat and spice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – earthy herbaceous note that complements chicken
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – for a subtle smoky warmth and a touch of color
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – brightens the dish with fresh herbal brightness
• Non-stick cooking spray – to grease the baking dish and prevent sticking

Recommended Tools

• Large skillet or sauté pan: Ideal for cooking the vegetables, turkey bacon, and building the sauce.
• Large mixing bowl: To combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce before baking.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch): Perfect size for layering and baking the tetrazzini.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring ingredients gently without scratching cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Cheese grater: For shredding cheddar and mozzarella fresh, for best melt and flavor.

From Start to Finish: Cheesy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Chicken

Cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If you’re using leftover chicken, shred it finely. This helps the chicken distribute evenly throughout the dish.

Step 2: Sauté Turkey Bacon, Onion, Mushrooms, and Garlic

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until it starts to crisp. Toss in diced onion and sliced mushrooms, cooking until they soften and the onions become translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic last, cooking for just 1 more minute to avoid burning.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in salt, pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Transfer the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into a large bowl. Pour the creamy mushroom and bacon sauce over it. Add half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, then toss everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness in every bite.

What to Use Instead

• Pasta: Substitute linguine or spaghetti with penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for a different texture.
• Chicken: Use cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken if preferred.
• Turkey bacon: Can be replaced with thinly sliced beef bacon or omit for a vegetarian-friendly version (replace protein with mushrooms or a plant-based alternative).
• Cheeses: Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or gouda, and mozzarella with provolone for a unique flavor profile.
• Heavy cream: Use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

If You’re Curious

Chicken Tetrazzini has its roots in Italian-American cuisine, named after the Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini. This casserole became popular in mid-20th century America as a comforting way to combine pasta with creamy sauce and chicken. The addition of turkey bacon and a mix of cheeses in this recipe gives it a modern twist that’s both accessible and delicious.

• Try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
• For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
• Pair this dish with a light salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftover Cheesy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini stores beautifully. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat refrigerated portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Microwaving is also an option for quick reheating—cover the dish and heat in 1-2 minute increments, stirring in between.

Cheesy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella provide a great balance of sharpness and meltiness, feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, provolone, or Monterey Jack to customize the flavor to your liking.

Is it necessary to bake the dish, or can I serve it as a stovetop casserole?

Baking adds a wonderful golden crust and brings all the flavors together, but you can skip the oven step if pressed for time. Just combine everything in a skillet and warm it through until the cheese melts, then serve immediately.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven with a splash of broth or cream to keep the dish moist. Microwaving with a damp paper towel over the container also helps retain moisture.

More from the Kitchen

• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake – Another cheesy, comforting pasta bake loaded with garlic goodness.
• Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Pasta – A creamy and flavorful pasta dish with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
• Baked Chicken Carbonara Pasta – Classic carbonara flavors with the ease of a baked casserole.

Time to Try It

Gather your ingredients and get ready to make a comforting, cheesy meal that’s sure to satisfy. This Cheesy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini is the perfect blend of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re serving family or meal prepping for busy days, this dish is a delicious, reliable favorite that everyone will love. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley to brighten each cheesy bite. Happy cooking!

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