If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and pasta, Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini is about to become your new favorite. This baked pasta casserole is packed with savory mushrooms, a luscious cream sauce, a golden breadcrumb topping, and a hint of nutmeg that transforms every bite into a cozy celebration. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want to treat yourself to something truly special, Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini never disappoints!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini lies in its simple, everyday ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component adds something essential — from richness and creaminess to just the right amount of crunch.
- Spaghetti or Linguine (12 ounces): The perfect base for soaking up all that creamy sauce; cook until just al dente for best results.
- Butter (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps build the base of the sauce.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Prevents the butter from burning and gives a subtle depth to the sautéed veggies.
- Yellow Onion, diced (1 small): Brings sweetness and aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Gives the sauce a warm, savory backbone.
- Mushrooms, sliced (8 ounces): Add earthy flavor and a meaty bite.
- Cooked Chicken, shredded or cubed (3 cups): Rotisserie chicken is a shortcut, but any leftover chicken works beautifully.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the sauce, turning it into a velvety blanket for the pasta.
- Chicken Broth (2 cups): Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce from feeling too heavy.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): The secret to that luxurious, creamy texture.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Brings tang and keeps the sauce from feeling one-note.
- Parmesan Cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, salty kick — don’t skip it!
- Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (1 cup): Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheese pull.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning every layer.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and bite.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch brings an unexpected coziness to the cream sauce.
- Italian-Style Breadcrumbs (1/3 cup): The key to a perfectly crunchy topping.
- Melted Butter (2 tablespoons): Helps the breadcrumbs brown and crisp in the oven.
- Chopped Parsley (for garnish): Brightens up the final dish and adds fresh color.
How to Make Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your spaghetti or linguine and cook it just until al dente — remember, the pasta will keep cooking in the oven, so you don’t want it mushy. Drain it well and set aside while you get the sauce going.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and fragrant. Next, stir in the garlic and sliced mushrooms, giving them a good 5 minutes to get golden and tender. The mushrooms will release their juices and then start to caramelize, adding loads of flavor.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over your veggie mixture and stir for a minute to form a quick roux — this is what will make your sauce thick and velvety. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Let the sauce bubble for another 3 to 4 minutes until it’s slightly thickened and luscious.
Step 4: Add Chicken, Cheese, and Pasta
Turn off the heat and fold in your cooked chicken, grated Parmesan, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Give it a good stir so the cheese melts and everything is coated in creamy goodness. Now add the drained pasta, tossing until every strand is bathed in the rich sauce.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese over the top. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter, then scatter this mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake in your preheated oven at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes, then shower with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is all you need to brighten up the creamy, cheesy surface of Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try a dusting of additional Parmesan, a few grinds of black pepper, or even some lemon zest for a touch of zing.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and hearty, so it pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some simply steamed green beans. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is also a must for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking individual portions in ramekins for a dinner party or family gathering. Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini also makes a cozy addition to a potluck, where you can serve it straight from the baking dish. If you’re looking to impress, pile it high on a large serving platter and garnish with whole parsley leaves and extra cheese for dramatic effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
This casserole is very freezer-friendly! Assemble the dish right up to the baking step, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 20 to 25 minutes. For individual portions, a quick spin in the microwave works great — just add a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine gives Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini its classic feel, you can swap in fettuccine, penne, or even rotini depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Frozen peas, chopped spinach, or even steamed broccoli make wonderful additions to Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini. Simply stir them into the sauce along with the chicken and cheeses for an extra boost of color and nutrition.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken?
You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or quickly poach or roast chicken breasts or thighs yourself. As long as it’s cooked and shredded (or cubed), any style will work perfectly in this dish.
How can I make this ahead for a party?
Assemble Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini up to a day in advance and refrigerate it, unbaked, covered tightly with foil. When you’re ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.
Is there a way to make this lighter?
For a slightly lighter twist, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt. You’ll still get that signature creaminess but with a little less richness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistibly homey about Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini — it’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joy of sharing this creamy, golden-topped classic with those you love. Dig in and enjoy every comforting bite!
Print
Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting, creamy baked pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer and garnished with fresh parsley. Perfect for family dinners and cozy meals.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Chicken and Cheese
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Topping
- 1/3 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms are browned.
- Make Roux and Sauce: Stir in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour into the skillet and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Mix in the 3 cups cooked shredded or cubed chicken, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and half (1/2 cup) of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and toss until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer on top of the pasta.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option for this recipe.
- Add frozen peas or chopped spinach for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking to save time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
