Mediterranean Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
Mediterranean Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a lighter, more balanced take on the classic comfort dish. It keeps the creamy, cozy appeal people love, but uses olive oil, herbs, and simple ingredients to create cleaner flavors that do not feel heavy. Tender chicken, pasta, and mushrooms are wrapped in a silky sauce that gets richness from broth and a touch of cream, then baked until gently golden. This recipe works well for family dinners, small gatherings, or make-ahead meals because it reheats beautifully and stays satisfying without being overwhelming. It is familiar, practical, and just refined enough to feel special.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine, broken in half)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
¾ cup milk or light cream, salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish.
Cook pasta in well-salted water until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Stir in mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and lightly brown.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well, cooking for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then milk, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
Add chicken, salt, and pepper, then fold in the cooked pasta.
Transfer to the baking dish and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbling and lightly golden.
Tips
Undercook pasta slightly so it does not become soft in the oven.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time without losing flavor.
Slice mushrooms evenly for consistent texture.
Stir flour thoroughly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Warm the broth before adding for smoother thickening.
Season gradually and taste before baking.
Let the dish rest 5 minutes before serving to set.
Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Use a wide pan so moisture evaporates properly.
Finish with fresh herbs for a brighter Mediterranean feel.
Variations
Add spinach or kale for extra color and nutrients.
Use whole wheat pasta for more fiber.
Replace mushrooms with zucchini or artichokes.
Add grated Parmesan or pecorino for deeper flavor.
Use turkey instead of chicken.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet-savory note.
Mix in olives for a briny Mediterranean touch.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for warmth.
Top with breadcrumbs before baking for light crunch.
Use dairy-free milk and butter for a lighter version.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it fully and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling completely for up to 2 months.
What pasta shape works best?
Long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine holds the sauce well.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely, leftovers are perfect for this recipe.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is mild, but you can add chili flakes if desired.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Can I reduce the cream?
Yes, replace some milk with extra broth.
What side dishes pair well?
A green salad or roasted vegetables work nicely.
Can I add cheese on top?
Yes, a light sprinkle before baking is optional.
How do I reheat it?
Reheat covered in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: Moderate
Conclusion
Mediterranean Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is proof that comfort food can be both practical and balanced. It delivers creamy texture, familiar flavors, and enough flexibility to adapt to different tastes and ingredients. Whether served fresh from the oven or enjoyed as leftovers, it remains satisfying without feeling heavy. This is the kind of dependable recipe that fits into busy schedules while still bringing warmth and care to the table.