Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting, creamy pasta bake that’s perfect for feeding a family or a crowd. With tender shredded chicken, spaghetti, and a rich mushroom and cheese sauce, this dish is simple to make and satisfying to eat. It’s great for using leftover chicken and can be made ahead for busy weeknights or potlucks.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked spaghetti
cooked shredded chicken
cream of mushroom soup
sour cream
grated Parmesan cheese
shredded mozzarella cheese
chicken broth
butter
onion
garlic
salt
black pepper
olive oil
optional: peas or mushrooms for added texture

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Add cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Mix in half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.

Add the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Top with the remaining cheeses.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Add sautéed mushrooms or frozen peas for extra flavor.
Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Use cheddar instead of mozzarella for a sharper cheese flavor.
Add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
Yes, freeze before baking. It reheats well when baked from thawed or frozen.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with homemade white sauce or cream of chicken soup.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor—perfect for kids.

Can I use different pasta?
Yes, linguine or fettuccine work well too.

What’s the best chicken to use?
Cooked, shredded chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken are ideal.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, use mushrooms or plant-based protein instead of chicken.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?
Make sure there’s enough sauce and cover with foil if baking longer.

Can I add spice?
Add red pepper flakes or paprika for a kick.

Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and soup for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s both quick to prepare and comforting to eat. With minimal prep and flexible ingredients, it’s a perfect go-to for busy nights or make-ahead meals. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your kitchen.