Description
This Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and hearty dish featuring tender chicken, spaghetti or linguine, mushrooms, and a luscious savory sauce. Quick to prepare and easy to bake, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. The casserole offers customizable flavor options and reheats well, making it a family-favorite comfort food classic.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine, cooked al dente
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Toppings (Optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta and Chicken: Cook spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, shred or dice cooked chicken breast to use in the casserole.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add chicken broth and milk while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Chicken, Mushrooms, and Pasta: Stir the cooked chicken and sliced mushrooms into the sauce until well combined. Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking to let it set slightly and make it easier to portion.
Notes
- Cook pasta just until al dente as it will absorb sauce and continue cooking in the oven.
- Use rotisserie or freshly cooked chicken for best flavor and texture.
- Making the roux with butter and flour ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Customize cheese by mixing Parmesan with mozzarella or cheddar for gooier texture.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving enhances flavor melding and portioning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Chicken Tetrazzini, casserole, creamy chicken pasta, comfort food, baked pasta, one dish meal, easy dinner, family meal