Chicken Tetrazzini Bake Recipe
Looking for a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dinner idea? This Chicken Tetrazzini Bake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and a rich, flavorful sauce baked to golden perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- A one-pan wonder perfect for busy weeknights.
- Freezer-friendly for those planning ahead.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 12 oz cooked spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added veggies)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil the spaghetti until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine:
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Cream of chicken soup
- Chicken broth
- Sour cream
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
Stir until smooth.
Pro Tip: For extra creaminess, add 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Toss the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken into the sauce mixture. Add frozen peas if using.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
5. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake the dish uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Pro Tip: If the topping isn’t browning to your liking, switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Tetrazzini Bake with:
- A fresh green salad for balance.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls for a hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge (if frozen) and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms and add extra veggies like spinach or broccoli.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Tetrazzini Bake is a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy topping make it an irresistible comfort food classic. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!
