Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe – Best Dinner for Family (2025)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving a creamy, comforting pasta bake that satisfies the whole family, Chicken Tetrazzini is your answer. This dish combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and a velvety mushroom sauce topped with golden melted cheese — a perfect meal for cozy nights. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best Chicken Tetrazzini from scratch, explore expert tips to perfect it, and even discover easy make-ahead and freezing options. For more creamy pasta inspirations, visit our collection of easy pasta dinner recipes.

JUMP TO

What Is Chicken Tetrazzini and Why It’s So Popular

Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic American comfort dish made with cooked chicken, spaghetti, and a creamy sauce baked under a golden cheese crust. Despite the Italian-sounding name, the recipe originated in the U.S., reportedly created in honor of Italian opera star Luisa Tetrazzini in the early 1900s.

The Story Behind Chicken Tetrazzini

This dish became a favorite in hotel kitchens and church potlucks alike because it’s both rich and budget-friendly. Its creamy base and cheesy top make it the perfect bridge between Italian-style pasta and traditional American casseroles.

Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

Families love Chicken Tetrazzini for its blend of flavors: savory chicken, buttery mushrooms, and smooth cream sauce. It’s easy to make ahead, freezes beautifully, and tastes even better the next day.

For more baked comfort-food classics, check out our creamy casserole recipes.

Key Ingredients for the Best Chicken Tetrazzini

Ingredient	Purpose	Substitution
Chicken (cooked, shredded)	Main protein	Turkey or rotisserie chicken
Spaghetti (cooked al dente)	Pasta base	Linguine or fettuccine
Mushrooms	Adds umami	Omit or replace with peas
Butter & Flour	Form the roux	Use cornstarch for gluten-free
Chicken Broth & Cream	Create the sauce	Use half-and-half for lighter option
Parmesan & Mozzarella	Cheesy topping	Swiss or Monterey Jack
Garlic & Onion	Flavor depth	Shallots or onion powder

Protein Choices – Chicken or Turkey?

You can use poached, roasted, or rotisserie chicken. Leftover turkey works just as well, especially around the holidays.

The Creamy Sauce Base

A classic Tetrazzini uses a roux made from butter and flour, whisked with broth and cream. For an easier shortcut, many cooks add a can of cream of mushroom soup, though homemade sauce delivers fresher flavor.

Cheese Selection for Perfect Melt

A mix of mozzarella for stretch and parmesan for a salty edge gives the ideal creamy-crisp balance. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

Pasta and Vegetable Options

Traditional Chicken Tetrazzini calls for spaghetti, but linguine or penne hold sauce well too. Peas, mushrooms, or spinach add color and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Tetrazzini

1. Prepare the Chicken

Cook and shred about 2 cups of chicken breast. Rotisserie chicken saves time without losing flavor.

2. Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta until just al dente — it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter, sauté onions and mushrooms, stir in flour, then slowly whisk in chicken broth and cream until smooth. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Ingredients

Mix cooked pasta, shredded chicken, peas, and sauce together in a bowl. Stir in half of the cheese mixture.

5. Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour into a greased baking dish, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered at 350 °F (175 °C) for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tetrazzini Every Time

How to Avoid Dry Pasta Bake

Always ensure there’s plenty of sauce — the pasta will absorb some moisture while baking. Don’t overbake, as this causes dryness.

Flavor Boosters You’ll Love

Add a splash of white wine when making the sauce or stir in herbs like thyme or parsley. Garlic powder or a pinch of nutmeg also enhances the creaminess.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

Chicken Tetrazzini can be assembled up to a day in advance, covered, and refrigerated until baking. For long-term storage, wrap tightly in foil and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven, adding a bit of broth if needed.

Looking for more make-ahead meal ideas? Visit family dinner casseroles.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Tetrazzini

Vegetable Sides

Balance the richness with green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad.

Breads and Rolls

Serve with garlic bread, buttered rolls, or even homemade biscuits for dipping into the creamy sauce. Try pairing it with our homemade garlic bread recipe for the perfect combo.

FAQs About Chicken Tetrazzini

Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini without mushrooms?

Yes. Simply omit mushrooms or replace them with peas or broccoli for a veggie twist.

What’s the best pasta type for Tetrazzini?

Spaghetti is traditional, but linguine or short pasta like penne work well too.

Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini after baking?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to three months.

How do I reheat Chicken Tetrazzini without drying it out?

Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 325 °F with a few tablespoons of broth or milk.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight before baking.

Conclusion: Why Chicken Tetrazzini Deserves a Spot on Your Weekly Menu

Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, Chicken Tetrazzini offers the perfect balance of creamy comfort and satisfying flavor. With easy prep, flexible ingredients, and freezer-friendly storage, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again. For more one-pan meal inspirations, don’t miss our easy chicken dinners.

Table of Contents