Name: Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs; 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

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Elevate dinner with Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini, a creamy, cheesy classic that impresses with every savory bite. This comforting pasta dish blends tender chicken, rich mushroom sauce, and melted cheese into a warm, satisfying casserole perfect for family meals or special occasions. Deliciously creamy and effortlessly delicious, Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini turns simple ingredients into a memorable feast you’ll want again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort in a bowl: The creamy sauce and tender chicken combine for a warm, satisfying meal.
Easy to customize: You can add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust cheese types to suit your tastes.
Make-ahead friendly: It reheats beautifully and freezes well for busy weeknights.
Impresses guests: The elegant, cheesy bake looks and tastes like a dish from your favorite restaurant.
Nutritious balance: Packed with protein, mushrooms, and pasta for a balanced, filling dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple but essential ingredients is key to nailing the flavors and texture of Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini. Each component plays a role, from tender chicken to creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.

Chicken breasts or thighs: Cooked and shredded, this provides the hearty protein base.
Spaghetti or linguine: Classic pasta shapes that soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
Butter and olive oil: For sautéing mushrooms and building flavor from the start.
Cremini or button mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms add depth and texture.
Garlic and onions: Aromatics that bring warmth and balance to the sauce.
Chicken broth: The liquid base for a flavorful, rich sauce.
Heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates the signature creamy, luscious texture.
Shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheese: For that irresistible cheesy crust and melt inside.
Flour: Acts as the thickening agent for the sauce.
Salt, pepper, and thyme: Seasonings to brighten and elevate every bite.

Variations for Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini

This recipe is a great foundation that invites you to personalize it. Whether you want to embrace more veggies, swap dairy, or add spice, there’s plenty of room to adapt Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini to your lifestyle and cravings.

Vegetable boost: Add peas, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Dairy-free version: Swap cream for coconut milk and use vegan cheese alternatives.
Protein swaps: Use turkey, shrimp, or even tofu to change up the protein profile.
Spicy kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist.
Gluten-free pasta: Use your favorite gluten-free noodles without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini Classic Creamy Pasta Dish

How to Make Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or linguine until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside to avoid overcooking during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While pasta cooks, sauté or roast chicken breasts or thighs until fully cooked through and easily shredded. Set meat aside to cool slightly before shredding with forks.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms

In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, finely diced onions, and sliced mushrooms, cooking until tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and cream, stirring constantly until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Remove skillet from heat and stir in shredded chicken, cooked pasta, Parmesan, and half of the mozzarella. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Mix everything gently but thoroughly.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Pro Tips for Making Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini

Don’t overcook pasta: Al dente noodles hold up best during baking and prevent mushiness.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and delivers richer flavor than pre-grated versions.
Let the sauce thicken: A thicker sauce avoids watery casserole, ensuring creamy consistency.
Rest before serving: Allow the baked dish to sit for 5-10 minutes to set and make slicing easier.
Double the mushrooms: For more umami depth, increase mushroom quantity.

How to Serve Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini

Garnishes

Fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper brighten up the creamy richness and add visual appeal to your plated portions.

Side Dishes

Simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement the creamy pasta without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini in individual ramekins or cast-iron skillets for an elevated presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any extra Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, maintaining freshness and flavor for quick reheats.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully: portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or microwave individual servings for a fast meal solution.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient, flavorful shortcut that easily works in this recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it holds well in the fridge for several days and freezes nicely, making it ideal for batch cooking.

What cheese works best for Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini?

A mix of mozzarella for meltiness and Parmesan for sharpness creates the perfect cheesy balance.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap cream for coconut or almond milk and use vegan cheese alternatives to keep it deliciously creamy.

How can I make this recipe lower in carbs?

Try substituting the pasta with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts

Deluxe Chicken Tetrazzini is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a celebration, all in one simple dish. Whether for a weeknight treat or a special family meal, this creamy, cheesy classic is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll discover why it’s loved by so many!