Name: Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 ounce can cream of chicken soup; 10 ounce can cream of mushroom soup; 2 cups sour cream; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 cup frozen peas; 1 pound seasoned cooked chicken, chopped or shredded; 1 pound thin spaghetti, cooked al dente; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

I absolutely love this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe because it brings together creamy, comforting flavors with tender chicken and perfectly cooked spaghetti in one delicious casserole. Whenever I make this dish, it feels like sharing a warm hug on a plate, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s unbelievably simple to prepare, yet the rich combination of creamy soups, cheese, and a hint of garlic makes it taste like a special occasion meal. I find myself turning to this recipe whenever I want a cozy, satisfying dinner that everyone enjoys and asks for again.

Why You'll Love This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

What fascinates me most about this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is the way all these classic flavors come together so effortlessly. The cream of chicken and mushroom soups mixed with sour cream create such a luscious base that’s both indulgent and comforting. Then, when you add in the tender chicken and fresh peas, it balances out beautifully with bursts of freshness and natural sweetness.

Another thing I adore is how incredibly easy this dish is to put together. The ingredients are straightforward, pantry-friendly, and don’t require any fancy techniques, which means I can whip this up even on a busy weeknight without any stress. It’s basically a one-dish wonder that saves me time but feels like a home-cooked feast.

For me, this recipe shines at family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want something hearty that travels well and pleases all palates. It stands out because it’s both nostalgic and versatile, embodying that classic casserole comfort food vibe while still feeling fresh and satisfying. Trust me, this one’s going to be a favorite in your rotation too!

Ingredients You'll Need

A close-up of a cheesy pasta dish being lifted by a spoon showing long, stringy white noodles covered in melted bright orange cheese. The pasta looks creamy with bits of herbs and small specks of black pepper, layered beneath a thick top layer of melted cheese that is shiny and bubbly. The woman's hand holds the spoon above the white marbled surface, and in the background, part of a white bowl filled with more cheesy pasta is slightly blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that creamy, cheesy texture and savory flavor. Every addition, from the creamy soups to the fresh peas and tender chicken, works in harmony to create an unforgettable dish.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, savory creaminess that forms the flavor base of the sauce.
Cream of mushroom soup: Provides earthiness and depth alongside the chicken soup.
Sour cream: Brings tangy richness and helps create a smooth, velvety sauce.
Butter (melted): Adds luscious fat for creaminess and helps meld the sauce ingredients together.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist while intensifying the chicken flavor.
Salt, pepper, garlic powder: Basic seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
Frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, slightly sweet bite that brightens the dish.
Seasoned cooked chicken: The hearty protein star that keeps the casserole filling and satisfying.
Thin spaghetti (cooked al dente): The perfect pasta for soaking up creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a stretchy, gooey topping.
Cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and depth to the cheese blend.
Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty finish that elevates the whole dish.
Fresh chopped parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that complements the richness perfectly.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and generously coat a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Having the dish ready means you can move quickly once your mix is combined.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until you have a smooth, well-blended sauce. This step is crucial for creating a uniform flavor foundation.

Step 3: Stir in the frozen peas, chopped or shredded chicken, and cooked spaghetti. Toss everything gently to fully coat the pasta and chicken in that creamy sauce, ensuring every strand and bite will be flavorful.

Step 4: Pour the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top to create a luscious cheese blanket.

Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it for 30 minutes. This allows the casserole to heat through gently and prevents the cheese from browning too fast.

Step 6: Remove the foil and continue baking the casserole for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbling, and slightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top to add a fresh burst of color and flavor. Let the dish stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to let it set perfectly.

Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Servings and Timing

This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe makes about 8 hearty servings, perfect for feeding a family or having leftovers for the next day. The prep time is roughly 15 minutes, since most of the ingredients just need mixing and your pasta should be cooked in advance. Cooking time totals around 45 minutes, including the two baking phases. The casserole benefits from a resting time of about 5 to 10 minutes to let it settle and make serving easier. All in all, you’re looking at just about 1 hour from start to finish for this crowd-pleasing classic.

How to Serve This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

A white bowl holds a creamy pasta dish with three main layers. The bottom layer shows thick, light yellow spaghetti noodles, arranged loosely in mostly circular shapes. Mixed within the noodles are small bits of light beige chicken pieces and bright green peas scattered evenly. The top layer is a smooth, off-white creamy sauce coating the pasta and chicken, with tiny green parsley pieces sprinkled on top for color. A vintage silver fork rests inside the bowl on the right side, while the bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a folded blue cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I like to serve this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe hot, right from the oven, to enjoy all that gooey cheese at its best. For sides, I often pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. The freshness and crunch complement the creamy, soft casserole beautifully, balancing the meal perfectly.

For garnishing, I always add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top right before serving for a lovely pop of color and a mild herbaceous note. If I’m feeling festive, a few lemon wedges on the side brighten the whole plate wonderfully. For presentation, serving it in individual ramekins or small baking dishes makes it feel extra special for guests or family.

When it comes to drinks, I enjoy pairing this dish with a chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which cut through the creaminess nicely. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or iced tea works beautifully. This dish absolutely shines for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or holiday meals where you want something that's both comforting and impressive.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you’re short on chicken, leftover turkey or even rotisserie chicken works beautifully. For a vegetarian twist, sautéed mushrooms and additional veggies like zucchini or asparagus can replace the chicken while still keeping that cozy feel.

If you need to make this gluten-free, simply swap the thin spaghetti for gluten-free pasta—you won’t lose any of the creamy deliciousness. For a dairy-free or vegan version, experimenting with plant-based sour cream and cheeses can give a nice twist though it’ll play with the classic texture a bit. You might also try swapping out frozen peas for other veggies like chopped broccoli or carrots for a fun change.

For an exciting flavor variation, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a small dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for warmth and depth. Some days I’ve even swapped the mozzarella for gouda or fontina to bring a different melty cheese experience. And if you want to save baking time, assembling and baking individual portions in muffin tins is a cute, convenient method.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Easy Chicken Tetrazzini, I recommend storing any leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work perfectly. The casserole will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, allowing you to savor those comforting flavors again without losing any of that creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes very well, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. To freeze, place the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

For reheating, I find the oven works best to revive the baked-together texture and melty cheese. Cover the dish loosely with foil and heat at 350 degrees F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is faster but can sometimes make the pasta a little softer than I like. To avoid dryness, adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating helps keep things creamy and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves cooking time and adds extra flavor. Just shred or chop it before stirring it into the casserole mixture.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, thaw overnight and then proceed as directed; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I make this dish ahead of time and bake it later?

Definitely! You can prepare everything, store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready. This makes it ideal for busy days or when hosting guests.

What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt is tangier and can change the texture slightly, but it still creates a creamy sauce.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy in Chicken Tetrazzini?

Cooking the pasta al dente and combining it quickly with the sauce before baking helps prevent mushiness. Also, avoid over-baking by following the recommended times and letting the dish rest after baking to set properly.

Conclusion

I really hope you give this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe a try soon because it’s such a warm, comforting dish that feels like a little celebration of classic flavors. It’s straightforward but always feels special—perfect for weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you want a cozy, satisfying meal. Trust me, once you make it, this recipe will become one of your go-to favorites just like it did for me!