Description

Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole is a warm, creamy, and satisfying dish featuring tender chicken, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and melted plant-based cheese in a luscious sauce thickened with a natural gelling agent. This comforting casserole offers rich flavors and delightful textures, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
6 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked crisp and chopped

Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta

Vegetables

1 cup mushrooms, sliced and sautéed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy Alternatives

1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded
1 cup plant-based milk

Liquids and Sauces (natural)

1 1/2 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Thickening Agent

1 tsp natural gelling agent

Herbs and Seasoning

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, chop the onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Shred the cooked chicken breasts and set all ingredients aside.
Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms: In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add mushrooms and continue cooking until they release moisture and become tender to develop a savory base.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in chicken broth, plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar (natural), and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) into the mushroom mixture. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent and whisk carefully to prevent lumps. Let the sauce thicken gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add shredded chicken and cooked pasta into the sauce. Toss in chopped smoked turkey bacon and plant-based cheese. Stir until everything is well coated and the cheese begins melting into the creamy sauce.
Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra plant-based cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly, then sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, bright finish before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; al dente prevents mushiness during baking.
Use freshly cooked chicken; shredding warm chicken helps it integrate better with the sauce.
Whisk the natural gelling agent thoroughly to avoid clumps and achieve a smooth sauce texture.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to let flavors settle and make slicing easier.
Adjust the amount of plant-based cheese based on your preferred creaminess and cheesiness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: chicken tetrazzini casserole, creamy chicken casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, smoked turkey bacon casserole, comfort food, family dinner