Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini: The Ultimate Easy & Budget-Friendly Family Dinner Recipe
There are some classic recipes that stand the test of time, cherished for their ability to bring warmth, comfort, and delicious flavors to the family table without breaking the bank or requiring hours in the kitchen. This easy, creamy Chicken Tetrazzini is precisely one of those dishes. It’s a wonderfully satisfying pasta bake that combines tender chicken and pasta in a rich, velvety sauce, topped with golden, bubbly cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe proves you don’t have to skimp on flavor to feed your family a hearty, budget-friendly meal. Get ready to add this quick, delicious, and incredibly comforting dish to your regular rotation!
Why You Will Love This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing classic that you’ll want to keep in your recipe arsenal. Here’s why our creamy Chicken Tetrazzini is guaranteed to become a new family favorite:
- **Pure Comfort in Every Bite:** Imagine warm, tender spaghetti coated in a luxurious, savory cream sauce, perfectly complemented by succulent chicken and sweet peas. It’s the ultimate comfort food, providing a soothing and satisfying meal that truly hits the spot, especially after a long day.
- **Effortless & Quick Preparation:** This recipe is designed with your busy schedule in mind. Most of the ingredients are kitchen staples, and with pre-cooked chicken, you can have this delightful Tetrazzini ready for the oven in under 30 minutes. The total time from prep to table is less than an hour, making it an ideal choice for a stress-free weekday dinner.
- **Budget-Friendly Brilliance:** Feeding a family doesn’t have to be expensive. This Chicken Tetrazzini utilizes economical ingredients that are readily available at any local market. It’s also a fantastic way to transform leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you might have, turning simple components into a feast that stretches to feed everyone without compromising on taste.
- **Versatile and Adaptable:** While delicious on its own, this Tetrazzini pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp Homemade Greek Salad, some warm Italian Bread for dipping into the creamy sauce, or even a vibrant side like Spinach and Feta Orzo Salad or Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Aioli for added freshness and crunch.
- **Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor:** You don’t need exotic ingredients to create something truly spectacular. This recipe relies on a few core ingredients that come together to create a deeply flavorful and satisfying sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini
One of the beauties of Chicken Tetrazzini is its reliance on simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand or can easily pick up. This recipe celebrates uncomplicated cooking, proving that incredible flavors don’t require a complicated shopping list. For precise measurements and ingredient details, remember to check the complete recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Spaghetti: The traditional choice for Tetrazzini, spaghetti provides the perfect texture and surface for clinging to that rich, creamy sauce. We’ll be cooking it al dente, ensuring it maintains a slight bite even after baking.
- Cooked Chicken: This is where the budget-friendly and time-saving aspect truly shines! Leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even quickly pan-seared and diced chicken breasts work perfectly. Using pre-cooked chicken drastically cuts down on preparation time.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics, building the foundational flavors of the sauce.
- Onion & Garlic: The aromatic backbone of the Tetrazzini sauce. Diced onion cooked until translucent and minced garlic add depth and a savory fragrance that elevates the entire dish.
- Unsalted Butter & All-Purpose Flour: These two form the classic roux, which is essential for thickening our creamy sauce to the perfect consistency. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Chicken Stock: The primary liquid component for our rich sauce, contributing savory depth.
- Milk: Adds to the creaminess and smooth texture of the sauce. Whole milk or 2% milk works best for a truly indulgent result.
- Frozen Peas: A pop of vibrant green color and a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken and creamy sauce. No need to thaw them beforehand!
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for its salty, nutty flavor and its ability to melt beautifully into the sauce and form a golden crust on top. We’ll use it both in the sauce and as a topping.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out and balance all the flavors in the dish.
- Ground Nutmeg: A secret weapon in many creamy sauces, nutmeg adds a subtle, warm, and slightly sweet aroma that truly enhances the richness of the Tetrazzini without overpowering it. Don’t skip this!
Step-by-Step: How To Make Delicious Chicken Tetrazzini
Creating this irresistible Chicken Tetrazzini is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly creamy and flavorful baked pasta dish that your whole family will adore.
- Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the Tetrazzini from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until it reaches an al dente consistency – tender yet firm to the bite. This is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Drain the spaghetti thoroughly and return it to the pot. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a separate large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter.
- Create the Roux and Sauce Base: Add the unsalted butter to the pot with the cooked onions and garlic. Allow the butter to melt completely. Once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to combine the flour and butter, creating a smooth roux. This step helps thicken the sauce and cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Whisk in Liquids and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the chicken stock, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Once the stock is fully incorporated, add the milk, ground nutmeg, kosher salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook and whisk the sauce over medium heat until it begins to boil and thickens to a creamy consistency, usually taking about 5-8 minutes. The sauce should be smooth and coats the back of a spoon.
- Finish the Sauce and Combine: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1 1/4 cups of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and incorporated into the sauce, making it even more luscious. Add the cooked diced chicken and frozen peas to the pot with the sauce and mix well to combine all ingredients evenly. Then, transfer this entire chicken and sauce mixture to the pot containing the cooked spaghetti and gently toss until every strand of pasta is coated in the rich, creamy sauce.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Pour the entire Tetrazzini mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the Tetrazzini is bubbling around the edges and the cheese topping is beautifully melted and lightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve without it being too runny. Optionally, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
There you have it! A truly satisfying, easy, and creamy Chicken Tetrazzini that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic comfort food is sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection, proving that flavorful, home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Tetrazzini
To ensure your Chicken Tetrazzini is as delicious and foolproof as possible, consider these helpful tips:
- Achieving Al Dente Perfection: The key to great pasta in a baked dish is cooking it just right initially. Cook your spaghetti until it’s al dente, meaning it’s tender but still has a slight firmness to the bite. Since the pasta will continue to cook and absorb sauce in the oven, cooking it al dente prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Mastering the Creamy Sauce: For a truly smooth and thick sauce, whisk constantly when you’re gradually adding the chicken stock to your roux (the butter and flour mixture). This prevents lumps and ensures a silky consistency. If your sauce seems too thick after adding all the liquids, simply whisk in a little extra milk until it reaches your desired creaminess. Conversely, if it’s thinner than you’d like, let it simmer gently for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken before combining with the pasta.
- Leverage Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic vehicle for leftover cooked chicken. Whether it’s rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, baked chicken breasts from a previous meal, or even leftover holiday turkey, using pre-cooked protein saves significant time and effort. Simply dice or shred it before adding it to the sauce.
- Freshly Grated Cheese Makes a Difference: While pre-shredded Parmesan is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and offers a superior, more robust flavor. It truly elevates the taste of your Tetrazzini.
- Don’t Rush the Rest: Allowing the Tetrazzini to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking is crucial. This short period allows the sauce to thicken and set, preventing it from being too watery when served and ensuring all the flavors meld beautifully.
Delicious Variations to Customize Your Tetrazzini
While the classic Chicken Tetrazzini is a delight, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative!
- Cheese Exploration: Parmesan is traditional, but don’t limit yourself! For a stretchier, gooier texture, try adding some shredded mozzarella to the mix, or sprinkle it on top along with the Parmesan. A touch of sharp cheddar can add a tangy depth, while Pecorino Romano offers a saltier, more pungent flavor. A blend of cheeses can truly elevate the dish.
- Herbaceous Touches: Fresh herbs can brighten the rich sauce. Stir in some freshly chopped basil or thyme with the chicken and peas for an aromatic lift. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end is always a beautiful and flavorful garnish. For a subtle zest, a light squeeze of lemon juice over the finished dish before serving can cut through the richness wonderfully.
- Veggie Boost: Increase the nutritional value and add more texture by incorporating extra vegetables. Sliced mushrooms can be sautéed with the onions and garlic. Diced red bell peppers or a handful of fresh spinach can be added with the peas. Steamed broccoli florets or asparagus spears would also make excellent additions.
- Protein Swaps: Not in the mood for chicken? This recipe is equally delicious with other proteins. Cooked turkey is a fantastic option, especially after holidays. For a quicker version, canned tuna or cooked shrimp can be folded into the creamy sauce.
- Crunchy Topping: For an extra layer of texture, consider mixing panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the Tetrazzini before baking for a delightful golden, crispy crust.
- A Hint of Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the other seasonings. It provides a subtle warmth that complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tetrazzini
Absolutely! Chicken Tetrazzini is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish, combining the pasta, chicken, and sauce, and then transfer it to your baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since you’ll be starting from a colder temperature. Just ensure it’s heated through and bubbly before serving.
Yes, absolutely! While spaghetti is the traditional choice, Chicken Tetrazzini is wonderfully adaptable to various pasta shapes. Linguine or fettuccine are excellent long pasta alternatives. Shorter pasta shapes like penne, rotini, egg noodles, or even macaroni will also work beautifully, creating a slightly different, but equally delicious, texture. The most important tip is to cook whichever pasta you choose to al dente according to its package instructions, as it will continue to cook a bit more in the oven.
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the flavor, texture, and nutritional value of your Tetrazzini. Sliced fresh mushrooms, diced red or green bell peppers, chopped fresh spinach (which will wilt down significantly), or steamed broccoli florets are all great choices. For sturdier vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers, it’s best to sauté them with the onions and garlic until slightly tender before mixing them into the sauce. Spinach can be added directly to the hot sauce at the end and will wilt quickly. This simple addition is an easy way to personalize the dish to your family’s preferences.
Yes, Chicken Tetrazzini freezes very well, making it an excellent option for meal prep or future busy nights. Allow the baked dish to cool completely to room temperature. Then, you can either freeze individual portions or the entire casserole in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the Tetrazzini in the refrigerator overnight. You can then bake it covered at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or reheat individual servings in the microwave. If reheating from frozen, it will take longer to heat through.
Other Delicious Pasta Dishes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this creamy Chicken Tetrazzini, you might also love exploring some of our other satisfying pasta recipes that are perfect for any occasion:
Absolute Best Ever Lasagna Recipe
Old Fashioned Goulash (American Goulash)
Fast And Easy Shrimp Piccata
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Easy Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
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Ingredients
- 8 oz Spaghetti uncooked
- 2 cup Cooked chicken diced
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 cup Onion diced (about 1/2 medium onion)
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1/4 cup Butter unsalted
- 1/4 cup All purpose Flour
- 1 1/2 cup Chicken stock
- 1/2 cup Frozen peas
- 1 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese divided
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg ground
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
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Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente; drain and return to pot.8 oz Spaghetti
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In another pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion; cook until translucent. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.1 tbsp Olive oil, 1/2 cup Onion, 2 cloves Garlic
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Melt butter with onions and garlic, then stir in flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes.1/4 cup Butter, 1/4 cup All purpose Flour
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Gradually whisk in chicken stock, then milk. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until it begins to boil and thickens.1 1/2 cup Chicken stock, 1 cup Milk, 1 tsp Kosher salt, 1/2 tsp Black pepper, 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
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Stir in 1 1/4 cups parmesan cheese. Remove from heat.1 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
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Add cooked chicken and peas to the sauce; mix. Combine with cooked pasta.2 cup Cooked chicken, 1/2 cup Frozen peas
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Transfer to baking dish, top with remaining parmesan. Bake 25-30 minutes until golden.
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Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Optional: garnish with parsley.
Notes
Allow to cool to room temperature then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.