Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe (Creamy & Cheesy Pasta Bake)
Looking for a comforting baked pasta recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and family-friendly? This Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic American-Italian casserole made with spaghetti, chicken, mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce, all baked under a blanket of melted cheese.
It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it a great meal-prep option.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- A creamy baked pasta dish loved by kids and adults alike
- Uses leftover rotisserie chicken for quick prep
- Freezer-friendly and great for meal planning
- One-pan comfort food perfect for busy weeknights
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Chicken:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine, cooked al dente
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed, rotisserie works well)
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook Pasta
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until soft and fragrant.
3. Make the Cream Sauce
- Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and cream until smooth.
- Stir in sour cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
4. Combine Pasta & Chicken
- Add cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs on top.
6. Bake
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with garlic bread or salad.
Tips for the Best Chicken Tetrazzini
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Add veggies like peas, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
FAQs about Chicken Tetrazzini
Q: Can I freeze chicken tetrazzini?
A: Yes! Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen (add 10–15 minutes).
Q: Can I make chicken tetrazzini without mushrooms?
A: Absolutely—just skip them or replace with zucchini or bell peppers.
Q: What’s the best pasta for tetrazzini?
A: Traditionally spaghetti, but fettuccine or linguine works great too.
✨ This Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. A perfect comfort food casserole for busy families and gatherings!
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