If you have ever wanted to create a truly comforting and timeless casserole, the Classic Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch Recipe is your perfect answer. This rich, creamy, and cheesy dish brings together tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious mushroom-infused sauce baked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that will immediately become a favorite weeknight dinner or a standout dish for gatherings. Making this Classic Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch Recipe at home is not only satisfying but also surprisingly simple, ensuring you get to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating this heartwarming meal. Each component plays a crucial role, from building the rich sauce to adding that perfect crispy finish on top.
- 2 cups Cooked Chicken, shredded: Leftover roasted chicken or poached chicken breasts work wonderfully for tender, juicy bites.
- 12 ounces Pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine): Cook it al dente to avoid mushiness in your casserole.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Essential for sautéing and creating a silky sauce base.
- 1/3 cup All-purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce into a luscious, creamy texture.
- 2 cups Low-sodium Chicken Broth: Adds depth and a savory backbone to the sauce without overpowering.
- 1 cup Whole Milk: Contributes to the velvety creaminess of the dish.
- 1 cup Sliced Fresh Mushrooms: Brings an earthy richness and satisfying texture.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Gives a bright, fragrant aroma that lifts the flavors.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty tang and helps form a beautiful golden crust.
- 1/2 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy, irresistible topping.
- Salt and Pepper: Key to balancing and enhancing all the flavors perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional): For a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Make Classic Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s just al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. This ensures the noodles will hold their shape perfectly in the creamy bake, avoiding any sogginess later on. Drain and set aside, giving you a clean slate to build your sauce next.
Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your butter and add those fresh sliced mushrooms. Cook them until they have a lovely golden brown color and have released their natural earthy juices—about 5 to 7 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic, sautéing it for just one more minute to release that wonderful aroma without letting it burn. This combination is the flavor foundation of your sauce, so take your time here.
Step 3: Create the Roux and Sauce
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushrooms and garlic, stirring continuously to form a roux—a thick paste that will help your sauce come together beautifully. Let this cook for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Next, slowly whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk, making sure the sauce remains smooth and starts to thicken. This step takes about 5 to 7 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the sauce coats the back of your spoon perfectly.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a rich, cheesy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as necessary. The cheese not only adds flavor but also enriches the sauce’s creamy consistency, making every bite decadently satisfying.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into the sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. This part is all about balance—making sure every strand of pasta and tender chicken piece is kissed by the creamy mushroom sauce before baking.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread your chicken and pasta mixture evenly inside. Mix the seasoned breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this crunchy topping generously over the casserole. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. This crust adds that irresistible texture contrast that makes this Classic Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch Recipe truly special.
Step 7: Cooling and Garnishing
Once baked, allow the tetrazzini to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the casserole set up nicely, making it easier to serve beautiful portions. If you like, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a delightful fresh touch and vibrant green color.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is a classic and lovely garnish, you can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or some cracked black pepper right before serving. These simple touches boost flavor and add a bit of visual appeal that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and creamy, so pairing it with bright, fresh sides like a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans adds refreshing contrast. Light roasted vegetables or a lemony arugula salad also balance the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this Classic Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch Recipe for a special occasion, try individual ramekins for personal servings or a rustic cast iron dish for a cozy, family-style presentation. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts over the breadcrumb topping adds unexpected crunch and elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay delicious for up to 3 days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or next-day lunches packed with rich comfort.
Freezing
Classic Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch Recipe freezes well, so you can prepare it in advance for busy nights. Freeze in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil with plastic wrap. It’s best to freeze before baking to maintain freshness and texture; defrost overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly again. Cover the dish with foil while reheating to keep the moisture locked in and prevent drying out. If you’re in a rush, microwave portions covered loosely will also do, but the oven method preserves that delightful crisp topping best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or fettuccine is traditional, you can substitute with linguine, penne, or even egg noodles. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the pasta is al dente before baking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add more mushrooms or vegetables like peas and spinach instead. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian-friendly version.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out during baking?
Make sure your sauce is nice and creamy before combining with pasta. Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking then uncovering at the end helps retain moisture while still letting the topping crisp nicely.
Can I use pre-shredded chicken from the store?
Definitely! Pre-cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and works perfectly for this recipe, saving you time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
What can I do to make the topping extra crispy?
Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and even a bit of extra Parmesan cheese. Toasting the topping under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking also creates a wonderfully crunchy finish—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about creating the Classic Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch Recipe in your own kitchen. It’s a cozy, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining guests, or just craving comfort food, this recipe delivers every time with its rich flavors, creamy texture, and golden, crispy topping. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming your new go-to casserole for many happy meals ahead.
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Classic Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting, creamy pasta casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. This homemade dish is baked to golden perfection, making it a perfect family meal that combines hearty flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups Cooked Chicken, shredded (Use leftover roasted chicken or poach chicken breasts for tenderness.)
- 12 ounces Pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine) (Cook until al dente.)
Sauce and Topping
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (For sautéing vegetables and making the sauce.)
- 1/3 cup All-purpose Flour (Used to thicken the sauce.)
- 2 cups Low-sodium Chicken Broth (Provides depth and flavor to the sauce.)
- 1 cup Whole Milk (Contributes creaminess to the sauce.)
- 1 cup Sliced Fresh Mushrooms (Adds earthy flavor and texture.)
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced (Provides a fragrant aroma.)
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Adds nutty flavor and helps create a crust.)
- 1/2 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs (Creates a crispy topping.)
- Salt and Pepper (To taste.)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped (Optional for garnish.)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Mushrooms: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned and tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma and flavor.
- Create Roux: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushroom and garlic mixture. Stir continuously to combine and cook the roux for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Make Sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk, stirring consistently until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat once thickened.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and creamy sauce until evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Prepare Topping: Mix the seasoned breadcrumbs with some melted butter and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken or poached chicken breasts for best tenderness and flavor.
- Cooking pasta just until al dente prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control saltiness.
- Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds color and a fresh herbal note to the finished dish.
