Super Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
There’s nothing quite like a creamy, cheesy pasta dish to bring smiles to the dinner table, and Chicken Tetrazzini has become a staple in our home. I first made this recipe on a hectic weeknight when I needed something quick yet satisfying. As soon as the buttery aroma filled the kitchen, my kids came running, asking what was for dinner. When I finally set the dish on the table, it was love at first bite.
What I adore most about this recipe is its versatility and simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. My husband often jokes that this tastes like it came straight from a fancy restaurant, yet it’s just our humble kitchen bringing the magic. It’s now our go-to for busy evenings, potlucks, and even special occasions when we want something comforting and delicious.
If you’re like me, always searching for recipes that balance flavor and ease, this Chicken Tetrazzini will win you over. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly baked pasta topped with golden breadcrumbs are an unbeatable combination. Trust me—once you’ve tried this, it’ll become one of your family’s favorites too!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without compromising flavor.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
Definitely. Freeze it before baking for the best results. When you’re ready to eat, bake straight from frozen and add 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time.
What pasta works best?
I prefer fettuccine or linguine, but spaghetti or even penne works just as well.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for the sauce.
What You Need to Make Chicken Tetrazzini
Ingredients:
12 oz fettuccine or linguine, cooked al dente
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Special Equipment:
Large skillet or saucepan
Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Add the liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Incorporate the cheeses: Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Add nutmeg (if using) and season with salt and pepper.
Combine ingredients: Toss the cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
Assemble the dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Tetrazzini
Don’t overcook the pasta: Undercook it slightly since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Use fresh cheeses: Grating your own Parmesan and mozzarella makes a big difference in flavor.
Add veggies: Mushrooms, peas, or spinach make excellent additions to this dish.
Make it spicier: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
Double the recipe: This dish freezes well, so make extra for an easy meal later.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for busy nights! I whipped this up on a hectic weekday, and it was such a hit! My kids went back for seconds, which never happens. — Sarah
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Delicious but needed more sauce. The flavor was amazing, but I’ll double the sauce next time for extra creaminess. — Mike
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great for meal prep! I made this ahead of time for a family gathering, and it reheated beautifully. Everyone loved it. — Lisa
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Very versatile recipe. I added mushrooms and peas, and it turned out incredible! Will definitely make again. — Emily
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Good, but needed more seasoning. The dish was nice, but I felt it needed a bit more salt and garlic. — John
Printable Recipe
Super Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
This Super Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is the ultimate comfort food! With tender pasta, creamy sauce, and a golden breadcrumb topping, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Ready in under an hour, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine, cooked al dente
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Special Equipment:
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Baking dish (9x13 inch works well)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add the liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Incorporate the cheeses: Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Add nutmeg (if using) and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine ingredients: Toss the cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Assemble the dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
Sharing recipes is one of the best ways to spread joy and connect with others. If your family loved this Chicken Tetrazzini, share a picture on Instagram or Facebook and tag me! It’s always exciting to see how these dishes turn out in your kitchens. Plus, don’t forget to pin this recipe for later so it’s always at your fingertips. Happy cooking!
