If you’re craving a comforting, homestyle casserole that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy, golden-brown goodness, look no further than this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini. This classic pasta bake is incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to make, transforming everyday ingredients into a dish that’s both nostalgic and wonderfully flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, Easy Chicken Tetrazzini hits all the right notes with its rich texture and delightful mix of mushrooms, peas, and cheese that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, each playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor balance for your casserole. From the buttery roux to the earthy mushrooms, every item enhances the creamy, cheesy comfort that defines Easy Chicken Tetrazzini.

12 oz spaghetti: The pasta base that soaks up all that delicious sauce, best cooked just al dente for a perfect bite.
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Adds hearty protein and can easily be swapped with turkey if preferred.
1 cup sliced mushrooms: Brings an earthy, savory flavor and a wonderful meaty texture to the dish.
1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the sauce.
4 tablespoons butter: The base for our roux, giving the sauce a silky, creamy body.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to coat every component perfectly.
2 cups chicken broth: Provides depth and savory richness to the creamy sauce.
1 cup milk: Softens the sauce and makes it irresistibly creamy.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a subtle garlicky warmth that complements the chicken beautifully.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a mild, aromatic note.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates the dish’s flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice without overpowering the other ingredients.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into rich, gooey layers that every bite delights in.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty contrast that lifts the whole casserole.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping): Creates a crispy, golden crust that gives texture and visual appeal.

How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and cook your spaghetti according to the package directions until just al dente. This ensures the noodles maintain a pleasant firmness after baking. Drain thoroughly and set aside so it’s ready to be mixed later.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them gently for around 5 minutes, until they become tender and release their earthy aroma. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor that really complements the chicken and peas.

Step 3: Make the Roux and Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked mushrooms and stir for about a minute. This helps cook out the raw flour flavor and starts the thickening process. Then, slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until thickened into a luscious sauce. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to season perfectly.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the cooked spaghetti, tender chicken, frozen peas (no need to thaw), and your creamy mushroom sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure every strand of pasta and shred of chicken is coated in that rich, flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the topping is golden, and the edges are bubbling invitingly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to let all the flavors settle together.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme make a lovely finishing touch, adding color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving can also elevate the taste and add a little elegant flair.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty casserole with crisp, refreshing sides such as a green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette or steamed broccoli to balance out the creamy richness. Garlic bread or a simple crusty baguette are also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd, consider serving Easy Chicken Tetrazzini in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets to make a cozy, personalized meal. You can also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top before baking to add a delightful crunch and a nutty layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Easy Chicken Tetrazzini keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld and deepen, making it just as delicious, if not more, the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. After baking and cooling completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Easy Chicken Tetrazzini gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, which usually takes 20 to 25 minutes. Covering it with foil during reheating helps keep the moisture locked in and prevents the top from over-browning. Alternatively, microwave portions for a quicker fix, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the pasta doesn’t get too soft after baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the chicken and add more mushrooms, peas, or other vegetables like spinach or artichokes. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will keep the flavors rich and satisfying.

What can I use if I don’t have cheddar cheese?

Cheddar adds a sharp, melty texture, but feel free to substitute with mozzarella for a milder, gooier effect or Gruyère for a nutty twist. Mixing cheeses can also create delicious results!

Can I prepare Easy Chicken Tetrazzini entirely ahead of time?

You can assemble it up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. When ready, just pop it in a preheated oven and bake a little longer if needed to ensure it’s heated through.

What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?

Using two forks to pull the cooked chicken apart works perfectly. Alternatively, if you have a stand mixer, a quick spin with the paddle attachment quickly shreds chicken with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is one of those magical dishes that brings warmth and comfort to any table with minimal fuss. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy cheesy topping create a harmony that’s hard to resist. I genuinely encourage you to try making this at home — you’ll soon understand why it’s a beloved classic that feels like a hug in casserole form.

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting pasta casserole featuring tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, peas, and a rich cheese sauce. Quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners, this classic baked dish combines spaghetti with a flavorful homemade roux-based sauce, topped with a crispy cheese and breadcrumb crust.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking when the casserole is assembled.
Cook Spaghetti: In a large pot, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Sauté Mushrooms: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are cooked through and tender, about 5 minutes.
Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour with the mushrooms and butter; cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. This creates the creamy base for the casserole.
Season Sauce: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the sauce, mixing well to evenly distribute the flavors.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, frozen peas, and mushroom sauce. Mix thoroughly so everything is well coated with the creamy sauce.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs over the top to create a flavorful, crispy crust.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and cool slightly.

Notes

You can substitute turkey for chicken if preferred or for a leaner option.
For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while cooking.
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving can add a nice color and fresh flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American