Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is the kind of comforting casserole that never goes out of style. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and pasta, it is a dependable dinner that feels both nostalgic and satisfying. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you need a hearty meal that feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is how approachable it is. It uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, yet the result tastes rich and well-rounded. When I first made this version, I appreciated how easily it came together using leftover chicken, making it both practical and economical. The creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta, while the baked topping adds just enough texture to keep things interesting. This is a recipe that delivers comfort, convenience, and reliable flavor all in one dish.
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Easy Chicken Tetrazzini: A Creamy, Comfort-Filled Classic
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting pasta casserole made with tender chicken, spaghetti, mushrooms, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add mushrooms and cook until tender and lightly browned.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then add heavy cream.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens, then stir in Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked chicken and spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- You can substitute peas for mushrooms if preferred.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cooked chicken
Chicken provides protein and substance, making the dish filling and satisfying. Rotisserie or leftover chicken works perfectly.
Spaghetti
Spaghetti forms the base of the casserole and holds the creamy sauce well.
Butter
Butter adds richness and helps build the sauce.
Onion
Onion adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the creamy base.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the savory flavor and adds warmth.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms contribute earthy flavor and texture that complements the chicken.
All-purpose flour
Flour thickens the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
Chicken broth
Chicken broth adds savory depth and prevents the sauce from being overly heavy.
Milk or cream
Milk or cream provides creaminess and richness to the sauce.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds sharpness and depth to the sauce.
Mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a cheesy, comforting finish.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and balance.
Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning adds mild herbal notes that complement the creamy sauce.
Directions
Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic and mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well, cooking for about one minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk or cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted, then add the cooked chicken and spaghetti. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese and bake at 175°C (350°F) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden. Allow to rest briefly before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves six people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, and total time is around 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Variations and Customizations
Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is very adaptable. For a lighter version, you can use milk instead of cream and reduce the cheese slightly. I have tested this approach, and it still produces a creamy, satisfying result.
Vegetables such as peas, spinach, or broccoli can be added for extra color and nutrition. You can also substitute turkey for chicken, making this recipe perfect for using holiday leftovers.
For extra crunch, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs on top before baking. If you enjoy bolder flavor, a small amount of Dijon mustard or grated nutmeg can be added to the sauce. These variations allow you to tailor the dish while keeping its classic comfort-food appeal.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is rich in protein and carbohydrates, making it filling and energy-dense. It contains dairy and gluten but can be adapted using gluten-free pasta and flour substitutes. Enjoy as part of a balanced meal.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Al Dente Pasta
Cook pasta just until tender to avoid mushiness after baking.
Smooth Sauce
Whisk continuously when adding liquids to prevent lumps.
Even Baking
Spread the mixture evenly in the dish for consistent texture.
Creamy Finish
Do not overbake, as the sauce thickens as it cools.
Flavor Balance
Taste and adjust seasoning before baking.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it is a convenient and flavorful option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Can I freeze chicken tetrazzini?
Yes, freeze before or after baking for up to two months.
What pasta works besides spaghetti?
Fettuccine or linguine work well.
Can I make it without mushrooms?
Yes, simply omit them or replace with another vegetable.
Why is my sauce too thick?
Add a bit more milk or broth to loosen it.
Can I use cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, as a shortcut, though homemade sauce tastes fresher.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is mild, creamy, and comforting.
Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Yes, they add a pleasant crunch.
What sides pair well with this dish?
A simple salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely.
Conclusion
Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a timeless comfort-food casserole that delivers creamy texture, savory flavor, and dependable results. Simple to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it is a recipe you can rely on whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
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