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Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

4.5 from 114 reviews

Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting baked pasta dish featuring tender shredded chicken, mushrooms, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This classic casserole combines spaghetti or fettuccine with a flavorful cream sauce, topped with mozzarella, Parmesan, and crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

Chicken and Vegetables

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced

Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning

Toppings & Garnish

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become soft and translucent.
  3. Sauté Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5 minutes.
  4. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked mushrooms and stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
  5. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to prevent lumps, followed by the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and sour cream. Stir in salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  6. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
  7. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Stir the shredded cooked chicken and the cooked pasta into the creamy mushroom sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  8. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
  9. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  10. Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
  11. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  12. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream.
  • If preferred, use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this dish gluten-free.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
  • Chicken can be substituted with turkey or cooked mushrooms for a vegetarian option (omit chicken and adjust diet labeling accordingly).

Keywords: Chicken Tetrazzini, creamy chicken pasta, baked pasta casserole, comfort food, cheesy chicken casserole