I was in the mood for something hearty the other day. You know, something that’s simple, satisfying, and hits the spot. That’s when I remembered chicken tetrazzini.

It’s one of those meals that always seems to get a thumbs up from everyone at the table—especially if cheese is involved. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with pasta, chicken, and a creamy sauce, right?

It’s funny because, growing up, my aunt would always make this for big family get-togethers, and we’d joke about how it was the dish everyone asked for.

We didn’t even need a special occasion; just a craving for something delicious would do the trick. And, to this day, it still makes an appearance at family dinners, no matter what time of year it is.

So, if you’re after an easy, tasty dinner that’ll keep everyone happy, this chicken tetrazzini recipe is a no-brainer.

It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, and best of all, it’s super simple to make. Give it a try next time you’re in the mood for a meal that feels like home.

Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp olive oil, butter, or ghee
• 4 tbsp rice flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour (for a gluten-free version)
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard or Dijon mustard
• 3 cups fresh full-fat milk or unsweetened plant-based milk (almond or oat milk for a vegan version)
• 1 1/2 cups finely grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded or diced into small pieces
• 1 lb gluten-free pasta or regular spaghetti
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Start by heating your broiler to a high setting. At the same time, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it for about one minute less than the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, warm up your olive oil or ghee over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the rice flour and stir for about a minute until it forms a smooth paste. Add the salt, pepper, thyme, and mustard. Slowly whisk in the milk (dairy or plant-based), and continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pasta, and cheese sauce. Mix everything until the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the creamy sauce. Transfer this mixture into a 13×9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining parmesan cheese and all the shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Place the baking dish under the broiler and cook for a few minutes, just until the cheese has melted and becomes golden brown and bubbly.

Tips For Making The Best Chicken Tetrazzini

Making chicken tetrazzini is simple, but a few tips can help you create the best version. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Cook Pasta Just Right: Cook your pasta slightly less than the package instructions. This prevents it from becoming mushy after baking. It will continue to cook in the sauce.
• Use Shredded Chicken: For a quicker and easier dish, use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken that’s already cooked and shredded into small pieces.
• Thicken the Sauce: Ensure the sauce thickens properly before mixing it with the pasta. If it’s too runny, add a little more flour to thicken it, or simmer it longer.
• Avoid Over-Baking: Don’t over-bake your dish under the broiler. The cheese should melt and become golden, but you don’t want it to burn. Keep an eye on it for a few minutes while it’s under the broiler.
• Add Flavor with Broth: For extra flavor in the sauce, use chicken broth instead of water when simmering the sauce.

Variations

If you’re looking to change things up or meet different dietary preferences, here are a few easy variations:

• Vegetarian Tetrazzini: Use a plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or a meat substitute instead of chicken. Add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms to enhance flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. There are many options available, including rice pasta or quinoa-based pasta.
• Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free alternative, substitute regular cheese with vegan cheese and swap whole milk for a dairy-free option like almond milk or coconut milk.
• Creamy Mushroom Tetrazzini: Add sautéed mushrooms to the dish for an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

What To Serve With Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken tetrazzini is a filling meal, so side dishes should complement it without overwhelming it. Here are some simple options:

• Green salad with light dressing
• Garlic bread or crusty bread
• Grilled or steamed asparagus
• Roasted brussels sprouts
• Cheesy potatoes
• Crispy green beans

How To Store Chicken Tetrazzini?

Storing leftovers properly ensures that your chicken tetrazzini stays fresh and delicious for later:

• Refrigerating: Let the dish cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze it in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag. It stays good for up to 3 months. When reheating, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake it until it’s hot and bubbly.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. If reheating individual portions, the microwave works too—just be sure to cover the dish to prevent drying out.

Can I Make Chicken Tetrazzini Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make chicken tetrazzini ahead of time. Here’s how:

• Refrigerate: Assemble the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze: You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes if stored in the fridge. If frozen, allow extra time to heat through.