Spaghetti Chicken Tetrazzini
Creamy chicken spaghetti tetrazzini features a rich white sauce, tender chicken, and mushrooms, baked to perfection—an ideal comfort dish for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a white sauce by melting butter, then stirring in flour and salt until smooth.
- Gradually add chicken broth, sherry or brandy flavoring, Parmesan cheese, and whipping cream, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain.
- Cook the chicken breasts, cool, and cube.
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, layer the cooked spaghetti, then spread the cubed chicken over it.
- Top with drained mushrooms, then pour the prepared sauce over all.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of whipping cream. If you want to add more flavor, sauté some garlic or onions in the butter before adding the flour. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or a plant-based protein to cater to different dietary preferences. This dish can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to complement the creamy sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside steamed vegetables or a light soup. You can also sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra flavor. Consider browsing more chicken recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Spaghetti Chicken Tetrazzini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through, or microwave in individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Chicken Tetrazzini contains roughly 869 calories, with 9g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1434mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other types of pasta like penne or fettuccine. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to achieve the desired al dente texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the white sauce. This way, you can still enjoy the creamy and delicious flavors without gluten.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).