Introduction
Looking for an easy, cozy dinner your whole family will love? This chicken tetrazzini recipe is a creamy, cheesy, satisfying baked pasta dish that’s perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or lazy Sundays. Packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and a creamy sauce—this recipe is a comfort food classic.
What’s great about this dish is that it’s simple to make, uses ingredients you probably already have, and feeds a crowd. Whether it’s your first time making it or your hundredth, this version is full of flavor yet super easy to follow.
Plus, you can customize it—add veggies, switch up the cheese, make it ahead, or freeze for later. In this guide, I’ll show you step-by-step how to make the best chicken tetrazzini recipe, all while using kitchen-tested tips and foolproof instructions.
So, grab your apron, and get ready for some serious cheesy goodness!
What Is Chicken Tetrazzini?
Chicken tetrazzini is a creamy baked pasta casserole made with cooked chicken, spaghetti, and a rich white sauce. It often includes mushrooms, cheese, and a crunchy topping made from breadcrumbs or parmesan cheese.
Named after an Italian opera singer, Luisa Tetrazzini, the dish is thought to have been invented in early 20th-century America. Over the years, it’s become a comfort food favorite in many homes.
What makes this dish so satisfying is its balance of textures and flavors. The tender chicken, the creamy sauce, the melted cheese, and the pasta all come together to make a warm and hearty meal.
It’s also super flexible. You can add veggies, use different types of pasta, or even swap the chicken for turkey or tuna. It’s easy to make this dish your own!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before getting started, gather everything you need for this chicken tetrazzini recipe. Each ingredient has a role, but you likely have most of these in your kitchen already.
Basic Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 12 oz spaghetti (or other long pasta)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup mushrooms (optional, sliced)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
You can also toss in extras like frozen peas, bell peppers, or spinach to make it more colorful and nutritious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make this chicken tetrazzini recipe from start to finish in simple steps.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil your spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook it, as it will bake later too.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil. Add the chopped onions and cook for 2–3 minutes. Then toss in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add mushrooms (if using) and cook until soft.
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix everything well. Add salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Let it simmer for 5 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked pasta, chicken, sauce, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is coated evenly.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with the rest of the cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly. If you want a golden top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
There’s a reason this chicken tetrazzini recipe stands out. It hits all the right notes for both flavors and practical cooking:
- Easy to make: No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults love the cheesy, savory taste
- Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for meal prepping or freezing
- Budget-friendly: Uses pantry and fridge staples
- Highly customizable: Add veggies or your favorite cheese
This dish is perfect when you need a “set it and forget it” comfort meal that everyone will devour.
Ingredient Swaps and Optional Add-ins
The beauty of this chicken tetrazzini recipe is that you can make it your own. Here are some ways to switch it up:
Protein Swaps:
- Use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving
- Swap in canned tuna for a tuna tetrazzini version
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time
Pasta Options:
- Use fettuccine, linguine, or even rotini
- Gluten-free pasta works too—just cook it less so it doesn’t get mushy
Cheese Choices:
- Try mozzarella for a gooey topping
- Use a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack
- Add cream cheese to the sauce for extra richness
Extra Veggies:
- Add peas, carrots, broccoli, or spinach
- Sautéed zucchini also works well
Customizing your chicken tetrazzini makes it fun and even more delicious!
How to Make It Ahead
One of the best things about this dish is that it’s great for busy days. You can prep this chicken tetrazzini recipe ahead of time in a few simple steps:
- Prepare the dish through all steps, including topping it with cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Instead of baking, cover with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to eat, bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes (since it’s cold).
This makes it a perfect dinner to prep on Sunday and bake Monday night.
Can You Freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
Absolutely! Freezing chicken tetrazzini is super easy and perfect for longer-term storage.
To freeze before baking:
- Prepare the full dish in a freezer-safe container.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Label and date the container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. You can also bake from frozen at 350°F, but it will take 60–75 minutes.
To freeze after baking:
Let the casserole cool completely, then portion into containers for easy reheating.
Great for meal planning or sharing with friends and family!
What to Serve With Chicken Tetrazzini
This hearty chicken tetrazzini recipe pairs well with lighter, fresh side dishes to balance its creamy richness. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
- Fruit salad for a slightly sweet touch
- Crispy Caesar salad, a classic match
Adding sides makes the meal even more satisfying and brings in color and crunch to the table.
Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
If you’re cooking for picky eaters or a big crowd, this chicken tetrazzini recipe is a safe bet. The creamy sauce and cheesy topping are usually a hit with everyone. You can easily double the recipe if you need more portions.
Here’s a tip: serve with juice boxes and some cookie bars for easy family meals or kids’ parties. You’ll get zero complaints and lots of smiles.
Tips for the Best Chicken Tetrazzini Every Time
Want to take your dish from good to amazing? Try these tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it keeps baking in the oven.
- Mix cheeses for a more flavorful top layer.
- Use rotisserie chicken to cut down prep time.
- Always let the dish rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Lightly toast the breadcrumbs before topping for extra crunch.
These little tricks help your chicken tetrazzini recipe stand out and taste like it came from a fancy restaurant.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving Estimate)
While it’s not exactly health food, knowing the basics helps you plan:
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 25g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
To make it lighter, use low-fat ingredients, whole grain pasta, and add extra veggies.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken in my chicken tetrazzini recipe?
Yes! Canned chicken works for a quick shortcut. Just make sure to drain it well and break it into small pieces.
2. What kind of pasta is best for chicken tetrazzini?
Spaghetti is traditional, but linguine, fettuccine, penne, or even egg noodles work too.
3. Can I make a gluten-free version?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free soup or homemade white sauce. Skip or substitute breadcrumbs.
4. Is this dish good for potlucks or family gatherings?
It’s perfect! You can make it ahead, it’s easy to transport, and it serves 6–8 people generously.
5. How long does leftover chicken tetrazzini last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days.
6. Can I make it without cream of mushroom soup?
Yes! You can make a quick homemade sauce using butter, flour, milk, chicken broth, and a little garlic.
Conclusion
If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and full of flavor, this chicken tetrazzini recipe is the answer. It brings everything you want in a comfort meal—easy steps, pantry-friendly ingredients, and a taste that feels like a hug in every bite.
Whether you’re making dinner for one or a feast for family and friends, this dish delivers every time. Plus, you can make it ahead, freeze it, mix things up, and serve it however you like.
Now that you know how easy and delicious it is to make, grab your ingredients and try it yourself. And once you taste it, don’t be surprised if your family asks for this chicken tetrazzini on repeat.
