If you’re craving the ultimate cozy, crowd-pleasing casserole, Chicken Tetrazzini might just become your new weeknight hero. This creamy, bubbly classic blends tender shredded chicken, earthy mushrooms, and golden pasta, all baked together under a cheesy, lightly toasted topping. With its velvety sauce and irresistible flavor, Chicken Tetrazzini is the kind of comforting dish that instantly brings everyone to the table—and leaves no leftovers behind.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Chicken Tetrazzini are simple but carefully chosen—each one brings something special to the dish, from the rich creaminess of sour cream to the satisfying bite of sautéed mushrooms. You’ll find that assembling these pantry staples creates a casserole with layers of flavor and a gorgeous golden finish.
- Spaghetti or linguine (12 oz, broken in half): The pasta forms the heart of the casserole, efficiently soaking up all the luscious sauce.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a silky base for sautéing veggies and lends richness.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Prevents the butter from burning and adds a hint of flavor.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Provides sweetness and an aromatic foundation.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A must for savory depth and warmth.
- Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced): Bring umami and a hearty texture to the casserole.
- Cooked shredded chicken (3 cups): The star protein—rotisserie chicken makes this incredibly easy!
- Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz can): Lends body and a savory earthiness to the sauce.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): Balances the mushrooms with a rich chicken flavor.
- Sour cream (1½ cups): Provides the signature tang and creaminess.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Ensures a luscious, smooth consistency.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully over the top, creating that ooey-gooey finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds sharp, salted nuttiness to both the sauce and the golden topping.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory, homestyle flavor profile.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Gives just enough punch without overpowering.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Brings all the flavors into tasty harmony.
- Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle earthy undertone.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional): Offer a crunchy contrast to all that creaminess.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons, for topping): Helps the breadcrumbs bake up crisp and golden.
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini
Step 1: Prep the Pasta
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti or linguine until it’s perfectly al dente. Break the noodles in half—this makes them way easier to mix and serve in the baking dish. Once they’re done, drain them well and set aside. (Pro tip: A quick drizzle of olive oil prevents sticking while you prep the rest!)
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, combine the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s melted and shimmering, add your chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, letting everything get soft and lightly golden, which brings out the sweet and earthy flavors. Stir in your minced garlic during the last minute, just until fragrant—this ensures it doesn’t burn but adds a wonderful aroma.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Grab a big mixing bowl—this is where the magic happens. Whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and half your Parmesan cheese. It might seem like a lot, but this blend creates Chicken Tetrazzini’s signature creaminess and flavor-packed sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Add the sautéed veggies, shredded chicken, and cooked pasta directly into your sauce bowl. Gently mix until every strand of pasta and shred of chicken is coated in that creamy goodness. Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy and Crunchy Toppings
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and the rest of your Parmesan evenly over the top. If you’re a fan of a crunchy finish, toss your seasoned breadcrumbs with melted butter, then scatter them over the cheese. The result? A Chicken Tetrazzini with a show-stopping, golden topping!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and beautifully golden on top. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes once out of the oven—this helps everything set, so you’ll get perfect, creamy slices every time.
How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini
Garnishes
Elevate the flavors and look of your casserole with a handful of freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who love a little heat. These simple garnishes add freshness and color, making your Chicken Tetrazzini irresistible and vibrant right out of the oven.
Side Dishes
Chicken Tetrazzini is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it truly shines alongside a crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or simple garlic bread. The freshness and crunch from these sides balance out the creamy casserole and turn dinner into a complete feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking individual portions in ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation or scoop the Chicken Tetrazzini into hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun, hands-on twist. You can also offer a sprinkle bar of fresh herbs and crispy fried onions so everyone can garnish their serving just how they like it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers keep beautifully in the refrigerator. Store your Chicken Tetrazzini tightly covered in the baking dish or transfer to an airtight container; it stays fresh for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen as it sits, making the next day’s lunch something special.
Freezing
This casserole is a perfect make-ahead meal. Once assembled, you can wrap Chicken Tetrazzini tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months before baking. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 20 minutes. For individual portions, a quick zap in the microwave works too. If the casserole looks a bit dry, sprinkle a splash of chicken broth over the top before reheating—your Chicken Tetrazzini will be just as moist and creamy as day one!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine are traditional for Chicken Tetrazzini, you can swap in fettuccine, penne, or even rotini—just make sure it’s cooked al dente to avoid mushiness.
How can I lighten up this recipe?
To make a lighter version of Chicken Tetrazzini, try substituting Greek yogurt for the sour cream, use low-fat soups, and go easier on the cheese. You’ll still get plenty of creamy flavor with a bit less richness.
What vegetables can I add for extra nutrition?
If you want more veggies, toss in a handful of frozen peas, chopped spinach, or even some sun-dried tomatoes. They blend right into the creamy sauce and add color and nutrients without any fuss.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, Chicken Tetrazzini is a meal-prepper’s dream! You can assemble it completely, refrigerate overnight, and bake it fresh the next day—or portion out individual servings for easy lunches all week.
Can I make it ahead and bake later?
Definitely. Assemble the Chicken Tetrazzini, cover tightly, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold casserole.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to dig into this Chicken Tetrazzini as I am to share it! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating friends to a cozy night in, this comforting casserole truly hits the spot. Give it a try and watch it disappear—happiness, guaranteed!
Print
Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this creamy and flavorful Chicken Tetrazzini, a classic baked pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. Loaded with shredded chicken, mushrooms, and a decadent cream sauce, this comforting casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine, broken in half
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
For Topping:
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, sauté onion and mushrooms in butter and olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. In a mixing bowl, combine soups, sour cream, chicken broth, spices, and cheeses. Mix in sautéed vegetables, chicken, and pasta.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Top with cheeses and breadcrumbs mixed with butter. Bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbly. Rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
- You can add peas or chopped spinach for a veggie boost.
- Leftovers keep well and reheat beautifully.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
