Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
Melena
Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta casserole made with tender chicken, spaghetti, and a rich homemade sauce. This simple weeknight dinner is perfect for using leftovers and pantry staples. A golden-baked top and indulgent flavor make this classic pasta bake a crowd-pleaser every time.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
- Cooked chicken breast shredded or chopped
- Spaghetti or linguine
- Butter
- Onion finely chopped
- Garlic minced
- Sliced mushrooms optional
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or half-and-half
- Sour cream
- Shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper
- Dried parsley or Italian seasoning
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mushrooms if using, and cook until tender.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
Reduce heat. Stir in sour cream, half the shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and herbs.
Fold in cooked chicken and pasta. Mix to combine.
Pour mixture into baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and Parmesan.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden.
Let rest a few minutes before serving.
-
Use rotisserie chicken or turkey for convenience.
-
Add peas, spinach, or broccoli for extra veggies.
-
Swap milk for cream or add white wine for a richer sauce.
-
For crunch, sprinkle buttery breadcrumbs on top before baking.
-
Add garlic powder or red pepper flakes for extra flavor depth.
Keyword cheesy chicken tetrazzini, chicken casserole recipe, creamy chicken pasta bake, Easy Chicken Tetrazzini, freezer friendly casserole, make-ahead pasta bake, weeknight chicken dinner