Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

You know those nights when you want something creamy, cheesy, and totally comforting? Well, this easy chicken tetrazzini is my go-to. It’s like a warm hug on a plate.

The best part? It’s super simple—just mix, bake, and enjoy. No fancy steps, no stress. And trust me, the flavors are unreal.

Juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone ask for seconds. And the leftovers? Even better the next day!

So, let’s make it! Grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let’s get cooking. You’re going to love this!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of sour cream, melted cheese, and cream soups creates an irresistibly smooth sauce.
• Family Favorite: A classic casserole dish that’s comforting and perfect for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and bake when ready.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Made with simple ingredients but packed with taste.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings

This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.

Difficulty Level

Easy – No advanced cooking skills required, just simple mixing and layering.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large Pot – For boiling spaghetti.
• Mixing Bowls – To combine the creamy sauce ingredients.
• Baking Dish (9×13-inch) – To bake the casserole evenly.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For mixing.
• Cheese Grater – If using block cheese.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides a creamy base.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – Adds depth of flavor.
• Sour Cream – Enhances creaminess and adds slight tang.
• Butter (melted) – Richens the sauce and prevents the pasta from sticking.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Helps loosen the sauce and infuses flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Enhances taste and balances the flavors.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle garlic essence.
• Frozen Peas – A pop of sweetness and texture.
• Seasoned Cooked Chicken (chopped or shredded) – The star protein of the dish.
• Thin Spaghetti (cooked al dente) – Holds the sauce well without becoming mushy.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts into a gooey, creamy layer.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds sharpness and richness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – A nutty, salty finish.
• Fresh Chopped Parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness and color.

Variations for Chicken Tetrazzini

• Use Turkey Instead: Swap chicken for leftover turkey.
• Try Different Pasta: Swap spaghetti with fettuccine, penne, or egg noodles.
• Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a deeper umami flavor.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Extra Cheesy: Use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.

How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the spaghetti al dente according to the package instructions (usually about 8 minutes).
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, and chicken broth.
2. Stir until fully blended and smooth.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Peas

1. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and frozen peas until evenly mixed.
2. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and gently toss to coat.

Assembling and Baking the Chicken Tetrazzini

Now that the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce and mixed with chicken and peas, it’s time to assemble and bake this delicious dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Layer the Mixture – Pour the creamy chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Add the Cheese Topping – Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. This creates a golden, gooey crust when baked.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Tetrazzini

1. Cover and Bake – Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. Bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the Foil and Continue Baking – After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
3. Check for Doneness – The edges should be golden, and the center should be hot and creamy.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

This dish is rich and hearty, making it a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few simple sides for a well-rounded dinner.

Great Side Dishes to Serve With It:

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts add freshness and balance.
• Crisp Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.

How to Store Leftovers

Chicken Tetrazzini is excellent for leftovers because the flavors meld and intensify over time. Here’s how to store it properly:

• In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• In the Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months.
  • To freeze: Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
  • To reheat from frozen: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

How to Reheat Chicken Tetrazzini

• In the Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 20-25 minutes, until heated through.
• In the Microwave: Reheat individual servings in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until warm.
• On the Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and gently warm over low heat.

Meal Prep Tips

• Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then bake as directed.
• Portion It for Easy Meals: Divide leftovers into meal-prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Double the Recipe: Make one dish for now and freeze the second for later.

Tips and Tricks for Success

✔ Cook Pasta Al Dente – Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, boiling it just until al dente prevents it from becoming mushy.

✔ Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience – Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds extra flavor.

✔ Let it Rest Before Serving – Giving the casserole 5 minutes to rest after baking allows the sauce to thicken slightly for a creamier texture.

✔ Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce – If the mixture seems too thick before baking, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

✔ Don’t Skip the Cheese Topping – A crispy, golden cheese layer adds the perfect finishing touch to this dish.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	~480 kcal
Carbohydrates	45g
Protein	32g
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	650mg
Fiber	3g
Sugar	4g

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portions.)

Chicken Tetrazzini FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.

Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

What can I use instead of cream soups?

If you prefer a homemade version, make a simple roux with butter, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream to replace canned soup.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious casserole that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a family-friendly dinner, this dish is a guaranteed winner.