If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in pasta form, this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe will quickly become your new go-to comfort food. It’s a creamy, cheesy casserole bursting with tender chicken, mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta all baked until golden and bubbling. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe hits the spot with its rich flavors and satisfying texture that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that each play a role in building layers of flavor and texture. From creamy soups to fresh mushrooms and savory cheeses, every component adds something special.
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine: Broken in half for easy serving and perfect bite-sized strands.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies just right.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances butter with a smooth, fruity note during cooking.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that irresistible aromatic kick to the dish.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Earthy and tender, they complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken: The star protein, juicy and ready to soak in the luscious sauce.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Adds velvety creaminess and umami flavor.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Enhances the chicken essence and creamy texture.
- 1½ cups sour cream: Gives the sauce its tangy richness and smooth body.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Lightens the mix while maintaining hearty flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stringy goodness topping the casserole.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty punch to the sauce and topping.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic flavor throughout.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers just the right amount of spice and warmth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors nicely.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Lends a subtle herbaceous note that complements the chicken.
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional): For a crunchy, buttery topping if you like that extra texture.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping): Helps brown the breadcrumbs perfectly.
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out in beautiful, comforting slices. Then cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, giving it just the right firm bite to hold up well in the creamy sauce. Drain it and set aside while you move on to the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your finely chopped onion and sliced mushrooms and cook them gently for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and release their juices. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, letting the fragrant aroma fill your kitchen. This step builds a savory base that will make the whole dish sing with flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Sauce and Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese. This creamy sauce is the magic that ties everything together. Stir in your sautéed veggies, shredded chicken, and cooked pasta until every bite is coated evenly with deliciousness.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top followed by the remaining Parmesan for a golden, cheesy crust. If you want that satisfying crunch, toss the seasoned breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them on top. This finishing touch adds wonderful texture and a buttery flavor boost.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe casserole for 30 to 35 minutes, until it’s hot and bubbling with a beautifully browned top. After removing from the oven, let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes—this little rest allows everything to set so it’s easier to serve and enjoy without losing that creamy, luscious consistency.
How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that beautifully contrasts the rich, creamy casserole. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also enhance that glorious cheesy experience, making each serving irresistible.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads for balance or some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans also bring a nice textural contrast and vibrant color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy, serve individual portions in small ramekins or shallow bowls topped with a sprig of thyme. You can also jazz it up with a drizzle of truffle oil or a few slices of fresh tomato on top for a fresh twist that impresses guests without complicating your cooking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop and meld even more when chilled, making day two just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. If unbaked, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time. Baked leftovers freeze well too—just portion out and freeze for quick comfort meals later on.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through to maintain that creamy texture and avoid drying out. You can also use the microwave, but cover loosely to keep moisture in and heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta for Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine are traditional and work perfectly, you can substitute with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta shape you enjoy. Just be sure to adjust cooking time to al dente for best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the sour cream and cheeses with dairy-free alternatives, but the sauce will be less creamy and rich. Using coconut cream and vegan cheese can work, though the flavor will differ from the classic Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe.
Can I add vegetables to the Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe?
Yes! Peas, chopped spinach, or even roasted red peppers are great additions that add color, nutrition, and taste without overpowering the creamy sauce.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves prep time. Otherwise, cooked shredded chicken breast or thigh meat works beautifully depending on your preference.
How do I make the topping extra crispy?
Using seasoned breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter is key. Make sure to spread them evenly over the cheese on top and bake uncovered to get that perfect golden crunch that contrasts with the creamy interior.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is everything warm, cozy, and satisfying wrapped into one delicious casserole. It’s a wonderful dish to share with loved ones, with flavors that bring comfort to every bite. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and discover just how effortlessly it becomes a treasured classic in your home too.
Print
Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting baked pasta casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms and onions, and a rich blend of cream soups and sour cream. Tossed with spaghetti and topped with mozzarella, Parmesan, and optional buttery breadcrumbs, this classic American dish is perfect for family dinners and easy meal prep.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine, broken in half
Sautéed Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
Main Mixture
- 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 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook the broken spaghetti or linguine until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to blend all the flavors together.
- Combine All Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables, shredded chicken, and cooked pasta into the sauce mixture. Gently toss everything until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top. If using seasoned breadcrumbs, toss them with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the cheese layer for a crunchy topping.
- Bake the Tetrazzini: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with a golden top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole set for easier portioning and enhances flavor melding.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save preparation time and add depth of flavor.
- Add peas or chopped spinach for a healthy vegetable boost.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and reheat nicely, making it a great make-ahead meal.
