Name: Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken breast; 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped; 8 ounces spaghetti pasta; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk or cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural); 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup plant-based cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar style), shredded

If you’re searching for a warm, creamy, and utterly comforting dish, look no further than this easy Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole. This classic American pasta bake shines with tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and melty plant-based cheese all brought together in a luscious mushroom sauce. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole delivers a savory, hearty meal that is bursting with flavor and perfect for cozy nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Comfort: This casserole combines simple ingredients into a creamy, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug.
Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and a cheesy finish make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Smoky Twist: Smoked turkey bacon adds a delicious depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
One-Dish Wonder: Easy to prepare and bake all in one casserole dish for less cleanup.
Adaptable and Versatile: You can customize it with different vegetables or plant-based cheese options to fit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole plays an essential role in making it creamy, flavorful, and visually inviting. From tender chicken to the umami-rich mushrooms, each component contributes to a harmonious balance of taste and texture.

Cooked Chicken: Use shredded or diced chicken breast for tender, lean protein.
Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and slight crunch to complement the creamy sauce.
Spaghetti Pasta: The classic base that catches every bit of delicious sauce.
Mushrooms: Sautéed to bring earthiness and texture to the casserole.
Plant-Based Cheese: Gives a melty, savory touch that holds the whole dish together.
Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics that build flavor layers in the sauce.
Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Adds a tangy, savory complexity to the sauce.
Chicken Broth: Keeps the sauce rich and moist without overpowering other flavors.
Plant-Based Cream or Milk: Creates a silky, creamy base that binds the casserole.
Apple Cider Vinegar (natural): Brightens the dish with a subtle tang and balances richer elements.
Natural Gelling Agent: Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness on top.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance every component.

Variations for Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole

Feel free to make this classic Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole your own by experimenting with ingredients and flavors that suit your preferences or dietary needs. The dish is wonderfully flexible!

Vegetable Boost: Add peas, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Plant-Based Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Different Pasta Shapes: Try penne, rigatoni, or egg noodles to change the texture dynamic.
Herb Variations: Incorporate thyme, rosemary, or basil for a slightly different aromatic profile.
Cheese Variety: Use smoked plant-based mozzarella or cheddar for unique melt and flavor.

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole to Savor

How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Prepare Ingredients

Start by boiling the spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, chop the smoked turkey bacon, onions, and garlic, and slice the mushrooms to get everything ready for sautéing.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms

Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside, then add onions and garlic to the same pan, cooking until softened. Toss in mushrooms and cook until their moisture evaporates and they turn golden.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine the plant-based milk or cream with chicken broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and the natural gelling agent. Warm gently while stirring to create a thick, creamy sauce, then season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl or directly in your casserole dish, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms and bacon, and the creamy sauce. Mix thoroughly so every strand of spaghetti is coated in delicious sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with a generous layer of plant-based cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook pasta to prevent mushiness after baking.
Season in Layers: Season chicken, sauce, and vegetables separately for deeper flavor.
Use Smoked Turkey Bacon: It adds smoky richness without overwhelming the creamy notes.
Don’t Skip the Natural Gelling Agent: It perfectly thickens the sauce for optimal consistency.
Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to set.

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika adds brightness and a burst of color, making the dish visually inviting and enhancing flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or freshly baked garlic bread made with plant-based butter for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins for charming single portions, or layer the casserole with fresh herbs and extra plant-based cheese shards on top for an appealing finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor integrity.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Use a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through or gently on the stovetop with a splash of plant-based milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time, adding extra flavor to the dish.

Is smoked turkey bacon necessary?

It adds wonderful smokiness, but you can substitute with regular turkey bacon or omit for a milder taste.

What plant-based cheese melts best?

Look for plant-based mozzarella or cheddar styles that melt smoothly for the best casserole texture.

Can I prepare this casserole vegan?

Yes, swap chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth to keep it completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor.

How long will the casserole keep after baking?

Once baked, it stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole is pure comfort food with its creamy sauce, smoky bites, and tender chicken, all coming together in one easy, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s perfect for those family dinners when you want something satisfying yet uncomplicated. Give it a try for your next meal and watch it disappear from the table with smiles all around.

Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole

Author: Anthony
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This easy Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole is a comforting American pasta bake featuring tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and melty plant-based cheese in a luscious mushroom sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, it combines creamy textures and rich flavors in a single dish.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta and Prepare Ingredients: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, chop smoked turkey bacon, onion, garlic, and slice the mushrooms to prepare for sautéing.
Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Remove from pan and set aside. In the same pan, add onions and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until their moisture evaporates and they turn golden, about 6-7 minutes.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine plant-based milk or cream with chicken broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and natural gelling agent. Warm gently over medium heat while stirring frequently to thicken the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or directly in the greased casserole dish, mix cooked pasta, shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms and bacon, and creamy sauce until well coated.
Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the plant-based cheese (plant-based) over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.