Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

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If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that truly feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a luscious blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan, it delivers rich, creamy goodness in every bite. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s endlessly satisfying and deliciously memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe plays an essential role, from the hearty chicken and silky cream to the medley of cheeses that create that irresistible gooey texture and rich flavor. These basics come together beautifully to craft a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

• 12 ounces uncooked spaghetti: The perfect pasta base that holds onto all the creamy sauce and cheese.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the onions evenly.
• 3 tablespoons butter (divided): Brings richness and depth to the sautéed vegetables and mushrooms.
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Provides sweetness and a bit of crunch to balance the creamy sauce.
• 2 uncooked chicken breasts (cut into 1″ pieces): Tender protein that soaks up flavors delightfully.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning that elevates every component.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory punch.
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a hint of herbal warmth to the sauce without overpowering.
• 7 ounces cremini or white mushrooms (sliced): Earthy mushrooms that lend texture and umami richness.
• 3/4 cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, silky base for the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Cultivates the dish’s creamy, luscious texture.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The secret weapon for ultra-smooth, velvety sauce binding everything together.
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Offers sharp, nutty notes that cut through the richness.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, delivering that gooey, cheesy topping every pasta lover dreams of.

How to Make Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

Step 1: Prep Everything for Success

Before you dive in, it helps to get all ingredients ready—bite-sized chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper, softened cream cheese, and the oven preheated to 350F with the rack placed in the top third. This prep sets you up for a smooth cooking flow and the best flavors.

Step 2: Perfect Your Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti just 2 minutes shy of the package instructions. This ensures the pasta will finish cooking in the oven without becoming mushy, giving you that ideal tender but slightly firm texture every time.

Step 3: Cook the Onion Just Right

In a pot over medium-high heat, gently sauté the chopped onion in olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter until it’s lightly browned and sweet, around 4 to 5 minutes. This step creates a flavorful foundation for the rest of the dish.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes until they’re nearly done but still juicy. Take care not to overcook so the chicken remains tender and juicy after baking.

Step 5: Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms

Introduce minced garlic, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, Italian seasoning, and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and it mostly evaporates, concentrating their flavor and softening them perfectly.

Step 6: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Turn the heat to high, then pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and softened cream cheese cut into smaller pieces. Stir nearly constantly for about 5 minutes while the cream cheese melts into a rich, silky sauce. Be careful not to overcook the sauce here, or it will thicken too much and dry out your pasta later.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Turn off the heat and add the cooked chicken back into the pot along with the drained pasta. Stir everything together so that every strand of spaghetti is coated in that luscious, cheesy sauce.

Step 8: Top with Cheese and Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a 9×13 baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan over the top, then cover with shredded mozzarella for that irresistible golden crust once baked.

Step 9: Bake and Broil to Perfection

Bake the tetrazzini uncovered for 30 minutes, then switch to broil for just a few minutes to get the cheese bubbling and browned on top. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—the goal is a beautifully caramelized, cheesy finish.

Step 10: Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to set a little, making it easier to slice and serve. Using a spatula to cut the pasta like lasagna ensures everyone gets a cheesy, creamy portion of this incredible dish.

How to Serve Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a lovely pop of color and brightness that contrast the richness of the cheese sauce. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavors beautifully without overpowering.

Side Dishes

Pair your Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables to balance out the creamy pasta and add textural variety. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is a perfect choice for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the tetrazzini in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. Alternatively, dress it up as a hearty casserole centerpiece for holiday dinners or potlucks, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a parmesan finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, too. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and store for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm leftovers gently in the oven at 325F until bubbly or microwave on medium power in short intervals to avoid drying out. Adding a splash of cream or broth before reheating keeps the sauce lush and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional here, other long pastas like linguine or fettuccine work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to keep pasta al dente.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetables like roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or even hearty mushrooms for an equally satisfying vegetarian version.

What can I substitute for cream cheese if I don’t have any?

You can swap cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a similar creamy texture, though the flavor profile will shift slightly—still delicious but a bit lighter.

How spicy is this Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe?

The recipe itself is mild and comforting, perfect for all palates. You can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking for a little kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.

Can I prepare this recipe entirely on the stovetop?

You can skip the baking step and serve it right after mixing the pasta and sauce, but baking adds that irresistible golden crust and melds the flavors beautifully, which I highly recommend for the classic experience.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe a try because it’s one of those wonderful dishes that brings both comfort and sophistication to the table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll become a go-to comfort food you’ll want to come back to time and again.

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