This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is the perfect comfort food for family dinners or gatherings. With tender pasta, creamy sauce, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that’s simple to make yet bursting with flavor. Using a rotisserie chicken cuts down prep time, making this recipe both convenient and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors for ultimate comfort food.
Made with easy-to-find ingredients for a stress-free meal.
Ideal for feeding a crowd or making ahead for meal prep.
Versatile—customize with your favorite cheeses or seasonings.
A satisfying one-dish meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

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

16 oz linguini
1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken condensed soup
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup butter
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, cream cheese, and sour cream. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Add the Italian seasoning, parsley, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Combine the Chicken and Pasta

Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the sauce and mix well.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked linguini with the chicken and sauce mixture. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

5. Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve

Let the Chicken Tetrazzini cool for a few 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

Veggie Additions: Add mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free condensed soup.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
Cheese Swap: Substitute Gruyère or fontina cheese for a richer flavor.
Seafood Version: Swap the chicken with shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well as substitutes for linguini.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with cream of mushroom or a homemade cream sauce.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta to al dente and avoid overbaking.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes, cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe.

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Tetrazzini?

Serve with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Yes, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking for added crunch.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy, cheesy flavors are a hit with kids.

Can I use reduced-fat dairy products?

Yes, reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses work well, though the dish may be slightly less rich.

How do I avoid clumpy cheese in the sauce?

Ensure the cream cheese is softened and whisk it thoroughly into the sauce. Add shredded cheeses gradually while stirring.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish!