Name: Chicken Tetrazzini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine pasta; 2½ cups cooked chicken shredded; 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup; 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup chicken broth; 3 tbsp melted butter; 2 cloves garlic minced; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

There’s something about creamy pasta baked until bubbly that just warms the soul.

This Chicken Tetrazzini is a tried-and-true comfort dish I’ve made countless times—simple enough for a weeknight, yet satisfying enough for guests.

It’s rich, savory, and full of flavor thanks to sour cream, cream soups, garlic, and parmesan cheese.

Whether you’re making it for the family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy, this baked chicken tetrazzini hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-dish wonder – minimal prep, maximum flavor

Pantry staples – no fancy ingredients needed

Ultra creamy and cheesy

Freezer-friendly – make ahead and bake later

Perfect use for leftover or rotisserie chicken

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Cooked chicken – shredded or chopped

Linguine – adds texture and absorbs all the creamy sauce

Sour cream – for tangy creaminess

Cream of chicken & mushroom soup – shortcut for a rich base

Chicken broth – balances the richness

Garlic, salt, and pepper – simple flavor boosters

Parmesan cheese – sharp, salty finish on top

Pro Tips Before You Start

Cook the pasta just to al dente – it will finish in the oven

Use low-sodium broth if you’re sensitive to salt

Melt the butter before mixing for easier combining

Shred your own cheese for better melting

Let it rest 5–10 minutes after baking to set

How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Boil linguine until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together melted butter, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Pasta

Stir in the cooked chicken and linguine. Toss well to coat everything evenly in the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13” casserole dish. Spread evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. It’ll thicken slightly as it rests.

What to Serve It With

Garlic bread or cheese biscuits

Caesar salad or garden salad

Roasted asparagus or green beans

A glass of crisp white wine

Pickled vegetables or coleslaw for crunch

Variations / Substitutions

Swap linguine for spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne

Use turkey or leftover holiday ham instead of chicken

Add mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies

Try cream of celery in place of mushroom

Top with buttery breadcrumbs for extra crunch

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days

Reheat in microwave or oven until hot

Freeze unbaked tetrazzini for up to 3 months

Thaw overnight in fridge before baking

Add a splash of broth when reheating if it seems dry

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. It’s flavorful and saves tons of time.

Can I substitute the cream soups?
Yes! You can use any combination—chicken, mushroom, celery, or even homemade versions if you prefer.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Just thaw in the fridge and bake as directed.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. Prep the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

How do I prevent dry pasta after baking?
Be sure not to overcook the noodles beforehand, and don’t skimp on the broth. You can even add a little extra if you like it super creamy.

What’s the best way to reheat it?
Microwave works well for individual portions. For best results, cover and heat in oven at 325°F until warm and bubbly.

Final Thoughts

This easy baked Chicken Tetrazzini is a comfort classic for a reason. It’s creamy, cheesy, and endlessly adaptable.

Whether you’re feeding a big family or stashing it in the freezer for busy nights, it delivers every single time.

It’s simple. It’s satisfying. And once you try it, it’ll definitely be part of your regular dinner rotation.