Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe – Easy Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are delivered like Chicken Tetrazzini. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, this pasta bake is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping. If you're a home cook, pasta lover, or comfort foodie, this decadent dish deserves a permanent spot on your recipe rotation.

Read on to learn how to whip up the ultimate Chicken Tetrazzini with tips, step-by-step instructions, and customizable variations.

What Is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy baked pasta dish that combines tender chicken, mushrooms, and spaghetti in a luscious sauce made with cream, cheese, and flavorful seasonings. The dish is named after Luisa Tetrazzini, a famous Italian opera singer, and embodies the luxuriousness of her world-renowned performances.

Whether you're feeding a family or just yourself with plenty of leftovers, this hearty, satisfying dish will warm your soul and your stomach.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a dish: Creamy sauce, melty cheese, and tender chicken make every bite a delight.
• Versatile: Swap ingredients to suit your pantry and preferences, such as turkey instead of chicken or whole-grain pasta for extra fiber.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even weekday leftovers.
• Easily customizable: You can add your favorite veggies, spices, or even a crunchy topping.

Now, let's get to the good part—making it!

Ingredients for Chicken Tetrazzini

Here’s what you’ll need for the base recipe. Most of these ingredients are already pantry staples for many home cooks:

Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti (or substitute with linguine or fettuccine)

Chicken:

• 2-3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)

Vegetables:

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce:

• 4 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings:

• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for added depth)

Optional Toppings:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Garnish:

• Chopped parsley for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

• Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cook for 6-8 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

1. Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in the skillet.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
4. Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, thyme (or Italian seasoning), and nutmeg (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Combine cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, cooked pasta, and the sauce in a large mixing bowl. Toss to coat everything evenly.
2. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and, optionally, breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crispy finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. If you’ve added breadcrumbs, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to create a golden crust.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve your Chicken Tetrazzini hot! Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Tetrazzini

1. Short on time? Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken to save prep time.
2. Experiment with pasta: While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to try penne, rigatoni, or egg noodles.
3. Cheese variation: Swap mozzarella with provolone or Gruyère for a unique twist.
4. Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free spaghetti and a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour substitute for the roux.
5. Add vegetables: Mix in peas, spinach, or sliced zucchini to up the veggie content.
6. Make ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate overnight. Bake when you’re ready to serve.

Common Questions About Chicken Tetrazzini

Q: Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?

Yes! After assembling (but before baking), cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Of course! Turkey is an excellent substitute, especially for Thanksgiving leftovers.

Why Chicken Tetrazzini Deserves a Spot on Your Table

Chicken Tetrazzini is more than just a dinner—it’s a warm, comforting hug on a plate! Whether you’re hosting guests or looking for a tasty meal prep solution, this creamy pasta bake ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak ingredients to suit personal tastes and dietary needs.

Make it, serve it, love it—and if you do, share your photos and feedback with us. We’d love to see your creations!