There’s just something magical about the Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe. It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia with every creamy, cheesy bite. This dish takes tender chicken, golden pasta, and a luxurious mushroom sauce, bakes it all under a blanket of bubbly cheese and golden breadcrumbs, and delivers a meal that always feels like a celebration. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress at a potluck, this classic recipe is a tried-and-true crowd-pleaser that never fails to satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday kitchen staples can transform into something so special. Each ingredient in this Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe plays a unique role—adding richness, creating texture, or infusing that signature savory flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Spaghetti (12 oz, cooked al dente): Holds up beautifully in the creamy sauce and provides the perfect pasta base.
- Cooked chicken (3 cups, shredded or chopped): A hearty, protein-packed star—rotisserie or leftover chicken works great!
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté the veggies and keeps the dish from feeling too heavy.
- Yellow onion (1 small, finely chopped): Brings sweetness and a subtle bite to the sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the base with irresistible aroma and flavor.
- White mushrooms (8 oz, sliced): Give earthy flavor and a meaty texture to every bite.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the sauce so it clings perfectly to every noodle.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Adds savory depth and balances out the creaminess.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Creates a velvety, smooth sauce with a lighter touch.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Provides that extra-lush, decadent texture we crave.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce for sharp, nutty flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts on top for that gooey, stretchy cheese pull.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch is all you need to add subtle warmth and depth.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing all the flavors!
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Give a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts the creamy pasta.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional): Brightens the finished dish and adds a pop of color.
How to Make Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, just until it softens and becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, letting them cook for another 5 to 6 minutes. The mushrooms will release their juices and become beautifully tender, setting the stage for a deeply flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
Once your veggies are fragrant and softened, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir constantly for about a minute. This forms a roux, which thickens your sauce and keeps it silky smooth. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, followed by the milk and heavy cream, whisking as you go. Let everything simmer gently for 5 to 6 minutes, until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper—these finishing touches add layers of flavor and a bit of complexity.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
Now, add your cooked chicken and al dente spaghetti right into the skillet with the sauce. Give everything a good toss, ensuring that every strand of pasta and piece of chicken is coated in that decadent, creamy mixture. You want the ingredients to be thoroughly combined so each bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in your pasta-chicken-sauce blend, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, then finish with a generous layer of breadcrumbs. This is what will create that irresistible, golden crust in the oven. Slide the dish onto the center rack and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and perfectly golden.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once the Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is bubbling and golden, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps the sauce set and makes serving easier. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like, for a burst of color and freshness right before bringing it to the table.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley goes a long way in brightening up the rich flavors and adding a touch of color. For extra zing, try a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan or a few cracks of black pepper on top just before serving. These little finishing touches make the Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or even a simple medley of sautéed vegetables are all wonderful complements. Warm, crusty bread or garlic knots are also fantastic for soaking up every bit of that dreamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe straight from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style meal, or portion it into individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party twist. You can even spoon it into hollowed-out bread bowls or serve it alongside mini Caesar salads for a fun, interactive presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making each reheated serving just as satisfying as the first. Be sure to cool the casserole completely before transferring to the fridge for best results.
Freezing
This dish is a freezer-friendly superstar. After baking and cooling, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes. For single servings, the microwave works beautifully—just add a splash of milk or broth to keep things creamy, and heat in 30-second bursts until piping hot.
FAQs
Can I substitute turkey for chicken in this Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe?
Absolutely! Turkey is a wonderful swap—especially after the holidays when there’s plenty of leftover roast turkey on hand. The flavors and texture work perfectly, and you won’t need to change anything else in the recipe.
What kind of pasta works best if I don’t have spaghetti?
While spaghetti is classic, fettuccine, linguine, or even penne can work well. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up to the creamy sauce and baking.
Can I add vegetables to this Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe?
Of course! Stir in peas, chopped spinach, or even steamed broccoli florets when combining the chicken and pasta. It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies and color.
How do I make this recipe lighter?
To lighten things up, substitute half-and-half or even evaporated milk for the heavy cream, and use reduced-fat cheeses. The result is still creamy and delicious, but with less richness.
Can I assemble the casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything up to a day ahead, then cover tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a soul-warming, creamy, and utterly satisfying meal, this Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is a must-try. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with anticipation, and it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. Go ahead—gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to this timeless comfort classic!
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Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Classic Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting baked pasta casserole featuring tender spaghetti, shredded chicken, a creamy mushroom sauce, and a golden cheesy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a family dinner or cozy meal, this American favorite blends rich flavors and satisfying textures baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz white mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 5 to 6 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Make Roux and Sauce: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the sauce is flavorful and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked shredded chicken and the al dente spaghetti to the sauce. Toss thoroughly until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the combined mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey for chicken if preferred for a different flavor or to use leftovers.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half to reduce fat content.
- Add green peas or chopped spinach to the sauce for additional vegetables and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
