Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini

There’s something incredibly comforting about Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini. I remember the first time I made it; it was a chilly winter evening and I had a craving for something warm, cheesy, and hearty. As I prepped the ingredients, the aroma of sautéing onions and garlic filled the kitchen, making my mouth water with anticipation. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a cozy embrace on a plate. Each bite is loaded with tender pieces of chicken, creamy sauce, and a delightful blend of cheeses that melt together beautifully. I often whip up this recipe for family gatherings or when friends come over, knowing that it will be a hit. It’s a dish that brings people together around the table, sharing stories and laughter over a comforting meal.

Ingredients Overview for Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini

The ingredients in Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini are not only delicious but also work wonderfully together to create a harmonious flavor profile. The key players in this dish include chicken, which brings protein and substance, and a trio of cheeses that provide creaminess and depth. Each ingredient complements the others, resulting in a comforting dish that feels special yet is easy to make.

• 12 ounces uncooked spaghetti: A perfect base for this dish; it absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully while providing a satisfying texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a hint of richness and helps prevent sticking.
• 3 tablespoons butter: This adds a rich flavor and creaminess to the sauce.
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Provides a savory foundation for the dish; sautéing it brings out its natural sweetness.
• 2 uncooked chicken breasts, cut into 1″ pieces: The main protein source, it becomes tender and juicy as it cooks.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: A fragrant addition that elevates the dish with its aromatic flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds depth and a touch of Mediterranean flair.
• 7 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced: A wonderful addition that adds earthiness and texture.
• 3/4 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and depth of flavor to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy sauce that binds everything together.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds a rich creaminess and helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a sharp, nutty flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This cheese adds stretchiness and a gooey texture that’s hard to resist.

Directions for Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini

Making Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini is a delightful experience! Follow these steps for a satisfying meal that you’ll want to share. Start by prepping your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Trust me, taking a little time to prepare will make everything easier and more enjoyable.

1. Begin by microwaving the cream cheese for about 20 to 30 seconds. This softens it, making it easier to blend with the other ingredients later. If you prefer, you can leave it out on the counter for a couple of hours to reach a soft consistency.

2. Next, take your chicken and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Once cut, season it generously with salt and pepper. Preheat your oven to 350°F and adjust the rack to the top third of the oven.

3. Now, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook it for about two minutes less than the package instructions; for example, if the package says nine minutes, cook it for seven. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

4. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, one tablespoon of the butter, and the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about four to five minutes, until it’s lightly browned and fragrant.

5. Now, add the seasoned chicken to the onion. Cook for five to six minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is almost cooked through. Be careful not to overcook it! Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, leaving any leftover onions in the pot.

6. In the same pot, add the minced garlic, the remaining two tablespoons of butter, the Italian seasoning, and the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about five minutes, or until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are cooked through.

7. Increase the heat to high, and pour in the chicken broth, cream, and softened cream cheese cut into smaller pieces. Stir continuously for about five minutes until the cream cheese melts and blends into the sauce. Be cautious not to let the sauce cook too long, or it will thicken excessively and dry out the pasta.

8. Once the sauce is ready, turn off the heat and add the previously cooked chicken back into the pot along with the drained spaghetti. Mix everything together thoroughly so that the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.

9. Transfer the contents of the pot into a 9×13 baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it off with the parmesan cheese, followed by the mozzarella cheese.

10. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you may want to broil it for a few minutes at the end to get a nice golden brown color on top. Be sure to watch it closely during this step.

11. After removing it from the oven, let it rest for about five minutes. When ready to serve, use a spatula to cut the pasta into portions, similar to how you would slice a lasagna. This makes it easier for everyone to enjoy a cheesy bite.

Recipe Tips about Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini

When making Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini, there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best results. I want to share these insights to help you create a dish that’s not only delicious but also brings joy to your dining experience.

• Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can last for about three to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra time.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
• Ingredient prep: Take the time to prep all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
• Creaminess adjustment: If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add a bit more cream or cream cheese than the recipe calls for.

Best Served With

Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini is a dish that shines on its own but can be complemented with a variety of sides and drinks. Here’s how to serve it best:

• Classic Salad: Serve with a fresh garden salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of greens balances the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Nothing beats a slice of warm garlic bread alongside this cheesy delight, helping to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a nutritious side.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine can enhance the meal if you enjoy wine. Opt for a light, crisp variety.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it serves a crowd and is loved by both kids and adults.
• Comfort Food Nights: Enjoy it on a cozy movie night, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your evening.

FAQ

Conclusion

Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting and indulgent dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. I encourage you to give it a try—your taste buds will thank you, and it’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories around the dinner table.

Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini

The ultimate comfort food, Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini combines tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy weeknight dinner is rich, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite. You’ll want to make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 12 ounces uncooked spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 uncooked chicken breasts cut into 1" pieces
• to taste Salt & pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 7 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 8 ounces cream cheese softened
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

 

• Prep steps: I recommend prepping all ingredients for this recipe prior to getting started. Microwave the cream cheese for 20-30 seconds so it gets very soft (or leave it on the counter for a couple hours). Season the chicken with salt & pepper after you cut it up. Preheat oven to 350F and move the rack to the top third of the oven.
• Boil a salted pot of water for the spaghetti, and cook it 2 minutes less than indicated on the package (it was 9 minutes for the brand I used). Once it's cooked, drain it and set it aside.
• Meanwhile, add the oil, 1 tablespoon of the butter, and the onion to a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for 4-5 minutes or until lightly browned.
• Add in the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes or until it's almost cooked through (don't overcook). Transfer the chicken to a plate (don't worry if there's some onions left in the pot).
• Add the garlic, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, the Italian seasoning, and the mushrooms to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the mushrooms have released their water and it's mostly cooked off.
• Increase the heat to high and add in the chicken broth, cream, and cream cheese (I cut it into smaller pieces first). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring nearly constantly to help the cream cheese melt in. Don't cook the sauce for longer because then it will get too thick and the pasta will end up dry.
• Turn the heat off and add the chicken back to the pot, along with the cooked and drained pasta. Give it a good stir.
• Transfer the pot contents to a 9×13 baking dish and arrange it in an even layer. Sprinkle the top with the parmesan cheese, followed by the mozzarella.
• Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes and then broil for a few minutes until the top has browned a bit (watch it carefully).
• Let it sit for about 5 minutes once you take it out of the oven. I recommend using a spatula to "cut" the pasta like you would lasagna so it's easier to eat and everyone gets some melted cheese on top of their portion.

Notes

• You can use cooked/rotisserie chicken instead if you wish: Follow the recipe as normal but skip step 4 then add 3-4 cups of the cooked chicken in step 7.
• 12 ounces spaghetti is 3/4 of a pound: (16 ounce) package.
• Nutritional information: is provided as a courtesy only and should be construed as an estimate rather than a guarantee. Ingredients can vary and Salt & Lavender makes no guarantees to the accuracy of this information.

Keyword cheesy chicken spaghetti, comfort food recipes, Easy Chicken Pasta, Three Cheese Chicken Tetrazzini

Previous PostOyster Mushroom Recipe

Next Post Lemon Cheesecake Doughnuts

Meet Romina Scott

Welcome to my kitchen. I founded Recipes By Romina with a simple goal: to share the fresh, vibrant, and reliable flavors that I love most. I personally develop and approve every single dish on this site to ensure it is not only delicious but also easy for you to recreate at home. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, I hope this recipe inspires you to grab an apron and get cooking!