Nothing beats the comforting goodness of a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that brings the family together, and this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe does just that with a perfect blend of tender chicken, mushrooms, and gooey cheese. If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple to prepare but feels like a warm hug on a plate, this casserole is your new best friend. It’s a delicious mix of flavors and textures that come together beautifully in one effortless bake, making weeknight dinners or casual gatherings something to really look forward to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in building its rich taste and creamy texture. From the tender shredded chicken to the earthy mushrooms and melty cheeses, every component brings something special to the table.
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine: Choose your favorite pasta shape; long noodles work wonderfully to soak up the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to sauté the aromatics and mushrooms for that silky base flavor.
- 1 small onion (diced): Provides a subtle sweetness that balances the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Packs a punch of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms: Earthy and tender, mushrooms give a lovely texture contrast and depth.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: The star protein, easily substituted with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Acts as a creamy, savory sauce base that ties everything together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess that elevates the casserole’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps loosen the sauce for a smooth, luscious consistency.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that deliciously gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to bring out all the dish’s flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note to complement the mushrooms and chicken.
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional): A fresh pop of color and brightness when sprinkled on top.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping): Gives the casserole a crunchy, golden crust that’s irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (to mix with breadcrumbs): Ensures the topping crisps up perfectly in the oven.
How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your spaghetti or linguine according to the package directions until al dente. This ensures the noodles have a perfect bite that won’t get mushy after baking. Drain well and set aside, as it will later soak up the creamy sauce for ultimate flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms
While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking gently for about 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful fragrance. Add the sliced mushrooms next and continue sautéing until they’re tender and have released their earthy juices, roughly 5 minutes. This step builds a rich foundation of flavor that the rest of the dish will lean on.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Creamy Sauce
Stir the cooked shredded chicken right into the skillet with the mushrooms and aromatics. Then add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix everything together thoroughly and allow it to warm through, creating a luscious, cheesy, and tangy sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of pasta.
Step 4: Toss Pasta with Sauce
Transfer the drained pasta back to the skillet or a large mixing bowl, and fold it gently into the creamy chicken mixture. Make sure each strand is coated evenly so that every forkful is full of that luscious, comforting flavor we’re aiming for in this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly, then pour the pasta and sauce mixture into it, spreading evenly. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter—this mixture will crisp up nicely in the oven. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the casserole for a beautiful golden crust that adds a delightful crunch.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is bubbly and golden brown, and the aroma is utterly irresistible. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to let all those flavors meld together perfectly.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley over the top adds a vibrant touch of color and a mild herbal freshness that brightens the dish just before serving. You can also add a pinch of extra Parmesan for those who love an extra cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pasta bake pairs excellently with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans to add some crispness and balance. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make fantastic companions if you want to make the meal even more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small oven-safe ramekins topped with extra breadcrumbs and cheese for personalized golden crusts. You can also layer leftover Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe into a lasagna-style dish or stuff it into large bell peppers for a filled, handheld meal that’s as charming as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen, making leftovers just as satisfying as the first serving.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes well. Freeze in a freezer-safe dish either before or after baking. Just cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or pop the whole casserole back into a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly again. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes if you want to crispen the breadcrumb topping once more.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine works wonderfully here, you can substitute penne, rotini, or any pasta you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.
Can I make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply leave out the chicken and add extra mushrooms, or replace the chicken with a plant-based alternative or cooked vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or broccoli for a meat-free version that’s just as comforting.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
It’s a bit tricky because the cheese and sour cream are key to the creamy texture, but you can try dairy-free sour cream and cheese substitutes available in many stores, plus a non-dairy milk option for the sauce to keep it creamy without dairy.
What can I add to make the dish more vegetable-rich?
Great idea! Adding frozen peas, chopped spinach, or sautéed bell peppers integrates some lovely color and nutrients. Stir them in when you add the chicken and sauce so they cook through evenly.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole entirely and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is truly one of those unbeatable comfort dishes that feels special yet is incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy night in, it’s bound to become a favorite you’ll reach for again and again. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!
Print
Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting American casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy cheese sauce tossed with spaghetti, then baked to golden perfection. A perfect family-friendly meal that’s simple to prepare and packed with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
Sautéed Vegetables and Chicken
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Garnish (Optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until they become tender and release their moisture.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix thoroughly and heat through until the mixture is hot and well combined.
- Mix with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy chicken and mushroom sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crispy golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting chicken tetrazzini!
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
- Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- Add frozen peas or sautéed bell peppers to increase vegetable content and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
