Easy Chicken Tetrazzini – All Cooks Corner

Quick Benefits

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole that brings classic home-cooked flavor to your dinner table with minimal effort. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal for busy nights, potlucks, or cozy Sunday dinners. With just a few pantry staples and pre-cooked chicken, this recipe comes together in under an hour and serves a crowd with ease.

Essential Ingredients

½ cup butter, melted
2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
2 cups sour cream
½ cup chicken broth or stock
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
4 cooked chicken breasts, chopped
16 oz linguini, cooked per package directions
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Optional: Fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or steamed vegetables for added flavor and color.

Preparation Steps

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Add chicken and pasta:
Stir in chopped cooked chicken, then fold in the cooked linguini. Mix well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Assemble the bake:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Top with cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top, followed by grated Parmesan.
Bake:
Place in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cool slightly:
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Health Benefits

Though rich and comforting, Chicken Tetrazzini can be made more balanced:

Protein-packed with chicken and cheese to keep you full longer.
Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas for fiber and vitamins.
Use light sour cream or low-fat soup for a healthier base.
Swap linguini for whole wheat pasta to increase fiber content.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm in hearty portions with:

Garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls
A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Steamed green beans, asparagus, or roasted veggies

Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or grated Parmesan right before serving adds a fresh, flavorful touch.

Drinks: Pair with white wine, sparkling water, or iced tea to balance the creamy richness.

Creative Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
Veggie Boost: Stir in peas, broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms.
Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or provolone.
Breadcrumb Topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking for a crunchy finish.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Assemble and freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions until hot.

Pro Tips

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t get too soft after baking.
Let it rest before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add reserved pasta water if the mixture seems too thick before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Absolutely! Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work just as well.

Q: Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I use canned chicken or turkey?
A: Yes — it’s a great shortcut. Just make sure to drain and shred it well.

Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the soup with a gluten-free version or homemade roux.

Q: What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
A: You can make a homemade version using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk for a healthier alternative.

Nutrition Facts (Per serving, based on 8 servings)

Calories: ~645 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Sodium: 780mg
Fiber: 2g