The Best Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Made with rotisserie chicken, rich cheeses, and a flavorful sauce, this casserole-style dish is a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Cheesy – A rich blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.
• Perfect for Family Dinners – A hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
• Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
• Versatile – Swap pasta types or adjust seasonings to your preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Meat

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken condensed soup

Pasta & Grains

• 16 oz linguini

Dairy

• ¼ cup butter
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Canned Goods

• 1 ½ cups chicken broth

Produce & Seasonings

• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook linguini according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in cream cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup, mixing until smooth.
6. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring continuously.
7. Add Italian seasoning, black pepper, and parsley, mixing well.

3. Assemble the Dish

8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked linguini, shredded rotisserie chicken, and creamy sauce.
10. Stir in cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese.
11. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Bake to Perfection

12. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
13. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

5. Serve & Enjoy

14. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Veggie Boost: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free condensed soup.
• Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey, shrimp, or tofu.
• Extra Crunch: Top with buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.

Storage & Reheating

Storing:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth and warm over low heat.

Freezing:

• Assemble the dish but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 50-55 minutes, or thaw overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work great.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use homemade cream of chicken soup?

Yes! A simple homemade version can be made using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk.

How can I prevent my pasta from drying out?

Make sure to fully coat the pasta in the sauce and cover leftovers well before storing.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes! Sautéed mushrooms add great flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to shred chicken quickly?

Use two forks or a hand mixer for fast shredding.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Use 3 times the amount of fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor—kids love it!

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a tangy, protein-packed swap.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese, plant-based cream cheese, and coconut milk instead of sour cream.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting, creamy, and delicious pasta bake that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With a rich cheese sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today for an effortless, crowd-pleasing meal!

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