If you’re on the hunt for a creamy, comforting casserole that brings everyone to the table with smiles, this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Brimming with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious sauce that bubbles under a golden cheesy crust, this dish is the very definition of cozy. It’s quick enough for busy nights, yet special enough to serve to guests, making it a true go-to in any kitchen. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, you’ll find yourself coming back to this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe whenever you crave a little comfort on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe lies in its classic, no-fuss ingredients—each one is chosen for the flavor, texture, or creaminess it adds. These staples come together to create a pasta bake that’s rich, satisfying, and deeply comforting.
- Spaghetti or linguine (12 ounces): The perfect foundation for soaking up all that creamy sauce—feel free to use your favorite pasta shape!
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps soften the onions for a mellow, sweet flavor.
- Finely chopped onion (1 small): Lends a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Brings a wonderful aromatic base to the dish.
- Cream of mushroom soup (10.5-ounce can): Gives the sauce its signature creamy, earthy backbone.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5-ounce can): Adds extra creaminess and an unmistakable savory chicken flavor.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Makes the sauce tangy, rich, and ultra-silky.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Keeps the casserole moist and infuses every bite with flavor.
- Cooked, shredded chicken (2 cups): Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for effortless prep and plenty of juicy bites.
- Frozen peas (1 cup, optional): Brings a sweet pop of color and freshness to the mix.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts into that irresistible gooey layer on top.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a salty, nutty punch that balances the creamy sauce.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the casserole.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A gentle kick to round out the taste.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Deepens the savory notes of the sauce.
- Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkled on top for a golden, crunchy topping.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a burst of color and fresh flavor to finish.
How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or nonstick spray—this ensures easy serving later and keeps cleanup a breeze. Having your dish ready before you start cooking helps everything move smoothly, especially when it’s time to assemble your Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti or linguine until it’s just al dente, about a minute less than the package suggests. You want the noodles to have a bit of bite—they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain well and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just foamy. Add your chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until it softens and turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, just until fragrant—this step builds a flavorful foundation for your Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy, then season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This luscious sauce is what makes the dish so irresistibly rich and comforting.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Veggies, and Pasta
To the skillet, add your shredded chicken and frozen peas (if using). Gently fold in the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until the noodles are evenly coated in the creamy sauce and the chicken is well distributed.
Step 6: Assemble and Top
Transfer the entire mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese generously over the top. If you love a crispy finish, scatter the breadcrumbs over the cheese for a golden, crunchy topping.
Step 7: Bake and Serve
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving—this helps the sauce set just enough for perfect slices. Finish with a shower of chopped parsley, if desired, for a fresh, colorful touch.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is a classic finishing touch for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe, adding both a pop of green and a fresh, herby aroma. If you want to get creative, try a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a little extra grated Parmesan for a salty, savory boost just before serving.
Side Dishes
This creamy casserole truly shines alongside simple sides. Serve your Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a plate of roasted vegetables for balance. Warm, crusty bread also makes the perfect pairing to mop up every last drop of that dreamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For weeknight dinners, simply scoop generous portions straight from the baking dish. Hosting guests? Spoon the tetrazzini into individual ramekins before baking for personalized servings, or add a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs and fresh herbs to each plate for a restaurant-worthy look. For a family-style feast, garnish the entire casserole with lemon zest and parsley for extra brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply transfer any cooled portions to an airtight container, and store for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making leftovers taste just as delicious (if not more so) the next day.
Freezing
This casserole is a freezer superstar! To freeze, let the baked or unbaked tetrazzini cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking as needed.
Reheating
For best results, reheat portions of Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through—about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, adding a splash of broth or milk to keep things creamy. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine are traditional, feel free to swap in penne, rotini, or even fettuccine. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well in the casserole.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can lighten up Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe by using reduced-fat sour cream, light cream soups, and part-skim mozzarella. You can also add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach for more nutrition and fiber.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the whole casserole up to a day in advance—just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge.
What kind of chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe, but any cooked, shredded chicken breast or thigh will work. Leftover turkey also makes a tasty alternative, especially during the holidays!
How do I keep the casserole from drying out?
Make sure to use enough sauce and don’t overbake. Covering with foil for the first part of baking can help lock in moisture, and adding a splash of broth before reheating keeps leftovers perfectly creamy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and pure happiness in every bite, you simply must try this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat. Whip it up for dinner soon, and get ready for second (and maybe even third) helpings!
Print
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: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is a comforting and creamy pasta bake that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Made with tender shredded chicken, a rich mushroom and chicken soup sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this casserole is deliciously satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth, mixing until the sauce is smooth and combined. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken and frozen peas (if using) to the sauce, stirring to combine well. Then fold in the cooked pasta until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese uniformly over the top. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer for added crunch.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dish is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe, saving time and adding flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking.
- Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and reduce the cheese amounts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
