Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini

The ultimate comfort food has arrived—Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini! This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and al dente spaghetti all wrapped in a luscious cream sauce, then baked to golden perfection. With melty mozzarella and crispy breadcrumbs on top, it hits all the right textures and flavors.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a cozy dinner for friends, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. It’s simple to prepare, freezer-friendly, and easily customizable with your favorite veggies or leftover rotisserie chicken. A true classic that everyone will ask for again and again!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are tender.

4. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then add milk and cream. Simmer until thickened, about 4-5 minutes.

5. Stir in salt, pepper, thyme, garlic powder, shredded chicken, and Parmesan cheese.

6. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until well coated.

7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs evenly on top.

8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

9. Garnish with parsley before serving if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Why Everyone Loves Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini: A Comfort Classic You’ll Make Again and Again

Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini is one of those recipes that never goes out of style. With tender pasta, juicy shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce, all baked until bubbly and golden—it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, hosting friends for a casual dinner, or just need a cozy dish to curl up with after a long day, this casserole-style pasta bake hits all the right notes.

A Little History Behind the Dish

The origins of Chicken Tetrazzini are quite elegant. The dish is believed to have been named after Italian opera star Luisa Tetrazzini, who was wildly popular in the early 1900s. It was first served at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, and while it’s Italian in name, it’s very much an American invention—a fusion of creamy sauces and baked pasta that fits perfectly into classic American comfort food traditions.

Over time, variations have popped up using turkey (a great Thanksgiving leftover idea), ham, seafood, or even vegetarian versions. But the chicken version remains the most popular and beloved, and for good reason—it’s hearty, flavorful, and simple to put together with pantry staples.

Why This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Stands Out

There are many ways to make Chicken Tetrazzini, but this version stands out for its balance of flavor, ease, and creamy richness without being too heavy.

Here’s what makes this particular recipe a winner:

1. Perfectly Balanced Cream Sauce

This recipe uses a combination of milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth, thickened with a bit of flour, to create a sauce that’s both rich and silky without being too dense. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds savory depth, while mozzarella on top gives it that irresistible gooey, golden-baked finish.

2. Fresh Ingredients

The sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and onions offer earthy, aromatic undertones that elevate the dish beyond just chicken and pasta. These simple ingredients create layers of flavor in every bite.

3. Customizable and Family-Friendly

This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Got leftover rotisserie chicken? Use that. Want to sneak in some veggies for the kids? Stir in frozen peas, spinach, or chopped broccoli. Prefer a bit of spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. It’s a versatile, no-fail base you can modify to suit your taste.

4. Freezer-Friendly

Chicken Tetrazzini is ideal for meal prepping. You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Or, freeze the unbaked dish tightly covered for up to 2 months. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready for a hot, comforting dinner.

The Benefits of Making Chicken Tetrazzini at Home

Beyond how delicious it is, this dish offers several practical benefits:

• Affordable: It uses inexpensive ingredients like pasta, chicken, and common pantry items.
• Feeds a Crowd: One batch makes 6 hearty servings—perfect for families or meal prep.
• Minimal Cleanup: Once the sauce is made, everything goes into one baking dish.
• Kid-Approved: The cheesy, creamy texture is a favorite among little ones (and picky eaters).
• Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Tetrazzini

Here are some expert tips to get the most out of your cooking experience:

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, be sure to boil it a minute or two less than the package says.
2. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt more smoothly.
3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: If you’re cooking the chicken from scratch, poach or bake it until just cooked through. Dry chicken won’t absorb the creamy sauce as well.
4. Season the Sauce Well: Since pasta absorbs a lot of flavor, make sure your sauce is well-seasoned before combining it with the pasta.

Make It Your Own – Recipe Variations to Try

Want to put your own twist on this comforting classic? Here are a few ideas:

• Add Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, frozen peas, chopped spinach, or sautéed zucchini.
• Swap the Protein: Try it with cooked turkey, ham, or shrimp instead of chicken.
• Make It Spicy: A dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes will add a little heat.
• Try Different Cheeses: Gruyère, fontina, or sharp cheddar can be used in place of or in addition to the mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for thickening.

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can round out the meal with:

• A green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Garlic bread or a warm baguette for dipping into that creamy sauce.
• Steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sautéed spinach for a touch of freshness.

It’s also perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you want to bring a dish to someone who needs a little comfort—whether it’s a new parent, someone recovering from illness, or a friend who could use a homemade hug in a casserole dish.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort, tradition, and flexibility. It’s the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell amazing, brings people together around the table, and satisfies the soul as much as the stomach.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner looking for a go-to dinner option, this dish delivers every time. Once you’ve made it, chances are it’ll become a regular rotation favorite in your home. It’s cozy, it’s creamy, it’s customizable—and most of all, it’s downright delicious.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini is the ultimate comfort food—rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It brings together simple ingredients to create a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or special occasions. Its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and savory chicken-mushroom combo make it a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love. Plus, with how easy it is to prepare, customize, and store, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

If you’ve been searching for a delicious, fuss-free baked pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this is it. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a permanent favorite in your recipe collection!