If you are on the lookout for a comforting and delicious meal that effortlessly brings family and friends around the table, the Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is an absolute winner. This creamy pasta bake perfectly blends tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and luscious Parmesan in a velvety sauce that hugs every strand of spaghetti. It’s a timeless dish with layers of flavor and a golden, bubbly top that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or just diving into casseroles, this recipe is a joyful culinary adventure you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is crafted using a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role in creating its cherished flavor and texture. From the silky sauce to the tender chicken and the crisp topping, everything comes together harmoniously.
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine: Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up the rich sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds a subtle creaminess and richness to the base of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables without overpowering flavors.
- 1 small onion (diced): Builds a savory foundation with its sweet and aromatic qualities.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a gentle warmth and depth into the sauce.
- 8 ounces mushrooms (sliced): Brings an earthy, umami touch that balances the creaminess.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds a savory liquid base that enhances the chicken flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk: Contributes to the creamy texture and smoothness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce with luscious richness and body.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Injects a sharp, nutty flavor that defines the dish.
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped): The hearty protein star of this comforting bake.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds pops of sweetness, color, and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the underlying flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat to round out the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle warmth and complexity if you love a little extra flair.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or more Parmesan (for topping): Creates that irresistible golden crust on top.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): A fresh burst of color and brightness as a finishing touch.
How to Make Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F, setting the stage for a golden finish later. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook your spaghetti or linguine according to package directions until perfectly al dente. This means the noodles will still have a slight bite, which is crucial since they will absorb the creamy sauce in the next steps without turning mushy. Once cooked, drain and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Build Flavor
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. This combination helps prevent the butter from burning while imparting a luxurious base. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, allowing the mushrooms to brown nicely and develop that deeper, savory flavor. This hearty vegetable mixture is the backbone of the classic sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well to coat everything. Cooking the flour for about a minute is essential to cook off its raw taste. Then, slowly whisk in the chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy cream, taking care to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken gradually to a creamy, luscious consistency. This sauce is a magical blend that will envelop every bite with silky satisfaction.
Step 4: Add Cheese, Chicken, and Peas
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt, pepper, and if you are adventurous, a pinch of ground nutmeg to deepen the flavor profile. Next, fold in your cooked chicken and frozen peas. The peas thaw in the warm sauce, adding vibrant pops of color and sweet freshness. Remove the pan from heat and combine this mixture thoroughly with your cooked pasta, ensuring every strand is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the pasta and sauce blend to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or additional Parmesan evenly on top. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top has melted into a gorgeous golden crust. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking — this makes it easier to serve and lets the flavors settle beautifully.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a wonderful visual contrast and a burst of bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the creamy richness splendidly. You can also add a little extra Parmesan right before serving if you love that salty, savory punch.
Side Dishes
Keep sides simple and fresh to balance the richness of the Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe. A crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables are perfect pairings. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also work wonderfully for mopping up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or have a bit of fun? Serve individual portions baked in ramekins for an elegant touch. You can also layer in a casserole with sautéed spinach or swap mushrooms for roasted asparagus to add a personal twist. Drizzling a little truffle oil just before serving takes this classic recipe into gourmet territory.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Simply cover tightly to prevent the pasta from drying out and enjoy a comforting meal the next day with minimal effort.
Freezing
This dish freezes incredibly well before baking. Prepare the casserole as directed through mixing but stop before adding the cheese topping and baking. Cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months and ready for a quick, hearty dinner anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then bake covered at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can remove the cover in the last few minutes to revive the golden cheese topping. For a quick fix, microwave individual portions, but baking retains the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional spaghetti or linguine works best for Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe, you can try penne, fettuccine, or even egg noodles. Just make sure to adjust cooking times for al dente accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe without mushrooms?
Yes, you can omit mushrooms if you’re not a fan or replace them with other vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. Each variation brings a unique flavor but the creamy sauce keeps the dish comforting and delicious.
Can I use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken?
Using leftover or rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves time. Just shred or chop the chicken before adding it to the sauce—easy and delicious!
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
If your sauce feels too thin, simmer it a bit longer to reduce and thicken. For a thinner sauce, add extra chicken broth or milk a little at a time until you reach your desired texture.
Is the Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe freezer-friendly after baking?
While freezing before baking is ideal for best quality, you can freeze leftovers after baking as well. Just be aware that the texture of the pasta and cheese topping may be slightly different after thawing and reheating.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the warm embrace of the Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe when you’re craving something homey and indulgent. This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a crowd-pleasing delight that brings comfort and joy to any table. Give this recipe a try soon and let its creamy goodness become a cherished staple in your kitchen repertoire.
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Classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Classic Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting baked pasta dish featuring tender shredded chicken, mushrooms, and peas in a rich Parmesan cream sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners, this American casserole combines spaghetti with a luscious sauce and a golden-bubbly baked finish.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
Sauce and Chicken Mixture
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Topping and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or additional Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set the pasta aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter together with olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the mushrooms become tender and browned.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked vegetables and stir to coat everything well. Cook this mixture for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and the optional ground nutmeg until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Then add the cooked chicken and frozen peas, mixing everything together. Remove the sauce from heat.
- Combine with Pasta and Bake: Mix the sauce thoroughly with the cooked pasta in the skillet or a large mixing bowl. Transfer the combined pasta and sauce mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese or extra Parmesan on top evenly.
- Bake and Serve: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut to save time in this dish.
- Mushrooms can be swapped with broccoli or omitted for those who prefer a different vegetable.
- This casserole freezes well before baking, making it convenient for meal prep.
