If you’re craving something absolutely comforting, rich, and irresistibly cheesy, then this Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. This classic casserole combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious mushroom sauce all baked to bubbly, golden perfection, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a cozy weekend meal, this dish brings warmth and flavor in every bite, all while being surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, straightforward ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each one adding its own touch of flavor, creaminess, or texture. From the tender chicken breasts to the creamy mushroom soup, every element plays a vital role in creating that signature creamy, savory dish.
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound): The heart of the dish, providing tender and juicy protein that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 8 oz thin spaghetti or linguine: These long pasta strands soak up the creamy sauce perfectly and create a delightful base.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Adds a velvety, earthy richness that makes the casserole decadently creamy.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Balances the creaminess while boosting the savory depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced): Fresh garlic gives a fragrant, zesty kick that brightens the whole dish.
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped): Provides a sweet and mellow foundation when sautéed.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top and throughout, offering gooey, stretchy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, salty punch to elevate the overall taste.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color, a slight sweetness, and a fresh vegetable contrast.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme): These herbs bring classic Mediterranean warmth and aroma.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that tie the whole dish together perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling plentiful salted water in a large pot. Add your pasta and cook it until it’s al dente, just tender with a tiny bit of bite left — usually about 8 minutes. Properly cooked pasta is key to absorbing all those creamy flavors without becoming mushy. Once done, drain and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a wide skillet over medium heat, melt a bit of butter or oil, then add finely chopped onions and freshly minced garlic. Sauté them gently for about 3 to 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the sauce. This step fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and ensures every bite is layered with savory goodness.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Add them to the skillet with the softened aromatics and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is wonderfully golden on the outside and cooked through — about 7 to 10 minutes. The slight browning adds richness and a beautiful texture contrast within the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Next, stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup and the chicken broth. Mix everything well, bringing it gently to a simmer so the flavors can marry. The mushroom soup adds velvety creaminess that’s essential to the signature texture of this dish, while the broth keeps the sauce from becoming too thick or heavy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Peas
Gently fold in your cooked pasta along with the frozen peas, stirring carefully to coat everything evenly in the luscious sauce. The peas add a subtle sweetness and fresh color that lift the entire plate, breaking up the richness marvelously. Now you have the perfect creamy filling ready for baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top. Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust. This final step transforms the creamy chicken tetrazzini into an irresistible, cozy casserole that everyone will want seconds of.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil over the hot casserole adds a fresh, herbaceous pop that contrasts beautifully with the creamy richness. You can also grate a little extra Parmesan on top right before serving for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
To balance the fullness of the creamy chicken tetrazzini recipe, a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette is perfect, cutting through the richness effortlessly. Roasted or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also pair wonderfully, introducing fresh, healthy textures to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in charming ramekins for an elegant single-serve touch. For a family-style gathering, a rustic wooden board with garlic bread or crusty baguette on the side provides the ideal vehicle to scoop up every last bit of delicious sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this creamy chicken tetrazzini recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a great next-day meal. Just keep the topping intact to maintain that cheesy goodness.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! After baking (or even before), place portions or the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to enjoy that rich comfort food whenever you need it.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, to preserve creaminess without drying out. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered loosely, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While thin spaghetti or linguine works beautifully, feel free to swap in fettuccine, penne, or even egg noodles. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the pasta remains al dente before baking.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can lighten it by using reduced-fat cheeses and swapping the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version made from low-fat milk and mushrooms. Adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini also boosts nutrition without weighing down the dish.
Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the chicken and add hearty mushrooms or tofu for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and still enjoy the rich, creamy base with all its comforting flavors.
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best because they cook evenly and stay tender in the casserole. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture if you prefer, just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Do I have to bake the casserole or can it be served stovetop?
Baking melts the cheese to a bubbly golden top and melds the flavors beautifully, but if you’re in a hurry, you can serve it straight from the stovetop after combining all the ingredients. Just sprinkle cheese on top and cover to melt before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is a heartwarming hug on a plate, perfect for making any mealtime feel special and satisfying. Give it a whirl, and you’ll quickly understand why it’s such a beloved classic that people return to again and again. Once you try it, sharing it with family and friends will become one of your favorite kitchen joys.
Print
Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting Italian-American casserole featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious creamy mushroom sauce. Baked to bubbly perfection with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that pleases the whole family.
Ingredients
Protein
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
Pasta
- 8 oz thin spaghetti or linguine
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese & Vegetables
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 3 to 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Cook Chicken: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the skillet and cook over medium heat until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, approximately 7 to 10 minutes.
- Create Sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and the chicken broth to the skillet, mixing well to combine. Add dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Combine: Gently fold in the cooked pasta and frozen peas into the creamy chicken mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the combined mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Notes
- Use thin spaghetti or linguine for a traditional texture; other pasta shapes can be substituted if preferred.
- For extra creaminess, you can stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or sour cream before baking.
- If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Frozen peas add a nice pop of color and sweetness, but you can substitute with cooked mushrooms or green beans.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well in the oven or microwave.
