If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that brings creamy, cheesy goodness together with tender chicken and spaghetti, look no further. This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is a classic baked pasta that combines simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or cozy family dinners. The luscious sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese topping create a dish so delicious you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe come together in harmony, each bringing essential flavor, texture, and color to the table. From the buttery base to the cheesy topping, every component plays an important role in making this dish irresistible.
- 12 ounces spaghetti, broken and cooked: Break it in half for easier serving and even layering with the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Creates the rich base for sautéing and the roux that thickens the sauce.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms (optional): For an earthy note and extra texture if you like mushrooms.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the creamy sauce when combined with butter and liquids.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Provides savory richness and balances the dairy elements.
- 1 cup whole milk: Creates a smooth, creamy texture in the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious richness for ultimate comfort food vibes.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: The protein star of the dish, tender and flavorful.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Little bursts of sweetness and color to brighten the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to give the casserole a gooey, cheesy topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty kick and golden brown crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors throughout the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle warmth and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor for extra savoriness.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional): Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunchy crust.
How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly and fragrant. Add the finely chopped onion, cooking for about three minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This step builds the flavor foundation that makes your sauce comforting and inviting.
Step 2: Build Aroma and Flavor
Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms if you’re using them. Cook these together for another two to three minutes, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant oils and the mushrooms to soften gently. This combination adds a savory, aromatic layer to the dish that makes every bite more satisfying.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir constantly for one to two minutes to create a roux. This mixture will thicken your sauce beautifully. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy cream while whisking continuously. Bring this to a simmer and allow it to cook for about five minutes until the sauce thickens just right—smooth and velvety with a hint of richness.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Then fold in the tender shredded chicken, sweet peas, and cooked spaghetti, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the luscious sauce. Stir in one cup of mozzarella cheese and a quarter cup of Parmesan to bind everything together and amp up the cheesiness.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the creamy mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top, then sprinkle breadcrumbs if you want a golden, crunchy crust. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until it is bubbly and the top is deliciously golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so the flavors can settle.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta. You can also add a few red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you like a little heat. These simple garnishes make the dish feel special and inviting at the table.
Side Dishes
Pair this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, or some roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to add texture and balance to your meal. A crusty piece of garlic bread is always a winner for sopping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique twist, serve small individual portions in ramekins and bake until bubbly. Or layer the tetrazzini in a clear baking dish so guests can admire the cheesy, creamy layers before digging in. Whether family-style or plated, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover chicken tetrazzini tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for easy weekday lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to batch cook, this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to keep the crispy topping intact. You can also microwave individual servings; just cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid it getting too mushy when baked.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and increase the mushrooms or add other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. Using vegetable broth in place of chicken broth will keep things flavorful.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is mild and family-friendly by default. If you prefer, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the creamy, cheesy comfort.
Can I use cooked chicken from a rotisserie?
Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time and adds wonderful flavor, making this dish even easier without compromising taste.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can lighten up the recipe by replacing heavy cream with extra milk or a milk and Greek yogurt mixture. The sauce will be less rich but still creamy and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavors that bring everyone to the table happily. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something impressive yet effortless. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing this family favorite as much as I do!
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Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting American baked pasta dish that combines tender shredded chicken, spaghetti, and a creamy cheese sauce. With a golden, bubbly top, this family-friendly meal is perfect for a satisfying dinner and can be customized with vegetables or turkey as alternatives.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti, broken in half, cooked and drained
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms (optional)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup frozen peas
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Topping
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms (if using) and cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes to develop flavors.
- Make Roux and Sauce: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed mixture and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it slightly thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Season and Combine: Add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the sauce. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, frozen peas, and cooked spaghetti to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Add Cheese: Mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta mixture for richness.
- Assemble and Top: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Optionally, add breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and for easier portioning.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey for chicken or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lighter version, use milk instead of cream and reduced-fat cheese.
- Add chopped spinach or other vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.
