If you’re craving a dish that brings together comfort, creamy indulgence, and a satisfying home-cooked vibe, this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender shredded chicken melding with silky mushroom sauce, green peas adding a pop of color and sweetness, and al dente pasta baked under a golden, crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb crust. It’s the kind of casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the luscious sauce, offering texture, or contributing fresh flavors. These simple and wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
- Spaghetti or linguine (12 oz): Classic pasta shapes that soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds richness for sautéing and flavor depth.
- Small onion, finely chopped (1): Brings gentle sweetness and a savory base.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Offers aromatic warmth that enhances every bite.
- Mushrooms, sliced (8 oz): Earthy tones and meaty texture that elevate the sauce.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Essential for thickening the luscious sauce.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Builds flavor and balances the creaminess.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds smoothness and lightens the richness slightly.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret behind that velvety, indulgent sauce.
- Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Tender protein that’s ready to blend with the creamy sauce.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): Pops of sweetness and color that brighten the dish.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup): Melty, gooey goodness throughout.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (½ cup): Sharp and nutty notes both inside and on top.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors seamlessly.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and earthiness.
- Nutmeg, optional (¼ teaspoon): Just a pinch brings a subtle warmth to the sauce.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional): For that irresistible crispy topping.
- Olive oil or melted butter (1 tablespoon): To toast the breadcrumbs into golden perfection.
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so the casserole won’t stick. Then, cook your spaghetti or linguine in salted boiling water until just al dente — meaning it should still have a slight bite to it. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you get the sauce going.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about three minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, stirring occasionally until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are tender—this usually takes around five to seven minutes. The fragrant base you’re building here is key to that irresistible flavor.
Step 3: Create a Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushroom mixture and stir to coat everything well. This will help thicken your sauce later. Now, slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk and heavy cream. Keep stirring consistently to avoid lumps and allow the sauce to thicken to a sumptuous, creamy consistency—this should take about four to five minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg if you’re using it for a subtle cozy hint.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Veggies, Cheese, and Pasta
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in your cooked shredded chicken, frozen peas, mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Now it’s time to add the cooked pasta. Toss gently but thoroughly, making sure every strand and morsel gets coated in the rich sauce. Then transfer all of this glorious mixture into your prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Topping and Bake
Mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the casserole. Don’t forget to scatter the remaining Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and golden color. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the topping is crispy and beautifully browned. Once out of the oven, allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme add a lovely pop of green and a bright, herbal lift right before serving. A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan can also elevate the presentation and flavor, making each bite even more delicious.
Side Dishes
Chicken Tetrazzini pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli would also be ideal for adding some fresh, vibrant contrast alongside this rich casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation perfect for dinner parties or cozy dinners. Alternatively, plating with a twist by topping with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add an unexpected dimension of flavor and excitement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover Chicken Tetrazzini tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it fantastic for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! To freeze, place the assembled (but unbaked) casserole into a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time and bake from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly—usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Microwaving works for single servings; just cover loosely and heat in short intervals to avoid drying out the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta besides spaghetti or linguine?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, penne, or even egg noodles work well in this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe. Just make sure to cook them al dente to maintain the perfect texture after baking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want it lighter?
You can replace heavy cream with additional whole milk or a mix of milk and a tablespoon of cream cheese for some creaminess without as much fat. Just note that the sauce might be a little less rich.
Is it okay to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken?
Definitely! Using leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds wonderful flavor to the dish. Just shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, feel free to add spinach, broccoli florets, or diced bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Just sauté or blanch them beforehand to keep everything cooked perfectly.
How do I make the topping extra crispy?
Mixing the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter helps create that golden, crunchy texture. For even more crunch, you can add some crushed toasted nuts or panko breadcrumbs for a delightful twist.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is pure comfort food magic. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with chicken and mushrooms, making it a guaranteed family favorite. Whether you’re new to this classic or revisiting a nostalgic recipe, I promise once you try it, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So grab those ingredients and get ready to enjoy one of the coziest baked pasta dishes out there!
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Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting baked pasta casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, mushrooms, peas, and a rich cheese sauce, all tossed with linguine and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan crust. This classic American dish is perfect for family dinners and can be easily prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
Sauce and Filling
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Topping
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the spaghetti or linguine in salted boiling water until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and most of the moisture has evaporated, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to coat evenly. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth followed by the milk and heavy cream. Continue cooking while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 4 to 5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Combine filling and pasta: Remove the sauce from heat. Stir in the shredded chicken, frozen peas, shredded mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the sauce.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture along with the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the structure set for easier slicing.
Notes
- For convenience, use rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey as the shredded meat.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli to boost nutrition and flavor.
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated; if baking straight from cold, add 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
