If you’re craving a creamy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re going to adore this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe. It’s a classic baked pasta casserole bubbling with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this dish comes together with simple pantry staples and delivers big on flavor and texture. The balance of melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and crispy breadcrumbs on top adds that irresistible golden finish you won’t be able to resist diving into again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it uses straightforward, familiar ingredients that each bring their own magic to the table. From the tender shredded chicken to the creamy soup base and perfectly cooked spaghetti, every element works together to create harmony in this comforting bake.
- 12 ounces spaghetti (broken in half): Cook it al dente to keep a slight bite that holds well in the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Combines with butter to prevent burning and infuses a subtle fruitiness.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Provides a sweet and savory flavor base when cooked.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Adds that fragrant punch that awakens the dish.
- 8 ounces mushrooms (sliced): Bring earthiness and a tender bite that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded): The star protein that makes this dish hearty and satisfying.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup: Gives a smooth, creamy texture with mushroom depth.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup: Adds richness and a subtle chicken flavor throughout.
- 1 cup sour cream: Keeps the sauce velvety and adds a slight tang for balance.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Thins the mixture just enough for a luscious consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic notes without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the savory undertones delightfully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey goodness that stretches with every bite.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp contrast to the creamy base.
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs: Tops the casserole with a crunchy and golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Freshens and brightens the appearance and flavor.
How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti, broken in half for manageable bites, and cook until just al dente. This texture is key so the pasta doesn’t get mushy when baked later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and turns slightly translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Let everything cook together for about 5 to 6 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the mixture smells irresistible.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce and Chicken
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and your sautéed vegetables. Add the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you have a creamy, flavorful mixture ready to embrace the pasta.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Fold the drained spaghetti gently into the creamy chicken and mushroom sauce. This coating ensures every strand is deliciously covered, creating a perfect balance of protein, sauce, and pasta in each bite.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top, then finish with an even layer of breadcrumbs. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole bubbles and forms that gorgeous golden topping. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let everything set beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of fresh flavor that complements the rich, cheesy casserole. You can also add a little cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
Since this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is wonderfully hearty on its own, light sides work best. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed seasonal vegetables to balance out the creaminess. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also excellent for scraping up every last bit.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at dinner parties, try individual ramekins or small oven-safe dishes to bake single servings. It makes each portion look extra special and keeps guests excited. You can also drizzle a bit of truffle oil on top before the breadcrumbs go on for an upscale touch that impresses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your family has enjoyed the first round, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or dinner round two.
Freezing
If you want to make this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe in advance, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole but hold off on baking. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the texture crispy on top and creamy inside. If you’re in a hurry, microwave on medium power in slices, stirring midway for even warming, but the oven method truly preserves all the delicious layers.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional and works wonderfully in this recipe, you can swap it for linguine, fettuccine, or even penne for a slightly different texture that still absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Is it possible to add vegetables for more nutrition?
Yes! Peas, chopped spinach, or even diced bell peppers make great additions. Just stir them into the sauce mixture before baking to sneak in extra color and nutrients without compromising flavor.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just be sure your cream soups are gluten-free or make homemade versions for peace of mind.
What’s the best way to shred the chicken quickly?
Using rotisserie chicken from the store is a fantastic shortcut. To shred cooked chicken easily at home, cool it slightly, then use two forks to pull it apart quickly into bite-sized pieces.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try swapping the butter for olive oil, use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives, and opt for dairy-free cream soups or homemade substitutes. It won’t be quite the same but still delicious and comforting.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is one of those comforting, go-to meals that feels like a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s approachable, delicious, and flexible enough to adapt to your pantry or preferences. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this creamy, cheesy casserole is guaranteed to become a beloved staple. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fall in love with this classic all over again!
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Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is a creamy, comforting baked pasta dish featuring tender chicken, mushrooms, and a rich blend of cream soups and cheeses. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines spaghetti with a savory sauce, baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti (broken in half)
Sautéed Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 8 ounces mushrooms (sliced)
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the assembled casserole later.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until just al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5–6 minutes, or until tender and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, sautéed onion and mushroom mixture, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well blended.
- Add Pasta: Stir the drained spaghetti into the mixture until the pasta is evenly coated and combined with the sauce and chicken mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and plain breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden and crisp.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time.
- Add frozen peas or chopped spinach to the mixture for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- Swap spaghetti with linguine or fettuccine if you prefer different pasta shapes.
