If you are looking for a comforting yet elegant dish to impress family or friends, this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is the perfect choice. Creamy, cheesy, and filled with tender chicken mixed with perfectly cooked linguini, every bite bursts with rich flavors and satisfying textures. This classic casserole is straightforward to make but feels special enough for any occasion, making it one of my absolute favorite go-to recipes for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe shine. Each component plays an important role, from the creamy base that binds the flavors to the cheeses that add that glorious golden crust and gooey texture.
- Butter, 1/2 cup melted: Adds richness and helps create a smooth sauce base.
- Cream of chicken soup, 2 cans (10.5 ounces each): Brings creamy, savory depth with minimal effort.
- Sour cream, 2 cups: Gives a slight tanginess that balances the richness.
- Chicken broth, 1/2 cup: Keeps the sauce moist and flavorful without overpowering.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon: Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
- Cooked chicken breasts, 4 (chopped): The star protein that makes this dish hearty.
- Linguini, 16 ounces (cooked): The perfect pasta shape to soak up all the creamy sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese, 2 cups shredded: Melts beautifully for that luscious, stringy texture.
- Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons grated: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, crispy finish.
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it’s hot and ready to bake your casserole to golden perfection. Meanwhile, gather and prep your ingredients since this step keeps the cooking flow smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. Then, stir in the cooked, chopped chicken so it’s beautifully coated in that rich sauce—the heart of our Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Next, add the cooked linguini to the mixing bowl, tossing it gently until every strand is enveloped by the creamy mixture. This ensures each bite is deliciously full of flavor. After mixing, transfer everything into a 9×13-inch glass baking dish, spreading it out evenly for an even bake.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the surface of the casserole, then dust the grated parmesan cheese on top. These cheeses are what turn this dish from tasty to irresistible, creating a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt fully and start bubbling around the edges—a sure sign that your Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is ready to come out and cool momentarily before serving.
Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
Once baked, give your casserole a few minutes to settle. This helps it firm up slightly for easier serving while still warm and inviting—then scoop out generous portions and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness, effortlessly elevating your Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe’s presentation and flavor. For a little extra texture, a few toasted bread crumbs or crushed nuts scattered on top can add a wonderful crunch.
Side Dishes
This creamy and rich casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables. Roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed green beans also provide a tasty, healthy contrast that balances the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for personalized portions. Layer it with slices of fresh tomato or sprinkle with extra cheese just before broiling briefly to create an even more decadent crust that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier second meal within 3 to 4 days.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place the casserole in a freezer-safe container or cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To prevent sogginess, avoid freezing with the cheese topping on; instead, add fresh cheese after thawing before baking.
Reheating
Reheat chilled portions in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbly—usually about 20 minutes. For frozen casseroles, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe?
Absolutely! While linguini is classic, you can substitute with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Choose a shape that holds sauce well for the best results.
Is this recipe suitable for using leftover chicken?
Yes, leftover chicken works perfectly here. It makes the dish even easier because the chicken is already cooked, so you just chop and add it right in.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives, and substitute butter with a plant-based option. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How spicy is Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe?
This dish is mild and comforting rather than spicy. You can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat.
Can I add vegetables to the Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe?
Yes! Mushrooms, peas, or even spinach fold in nicely and add nutrition and flavor to the casserole without overpowering the classic taste.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is truly one of those feel-good dishes that makes any meal special with minimal fuss. The creamy, cheesy pasta combined with tender chicken will have you reaching for seconds and making this casserole a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a family favorite!
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Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting, creamy pasta casserole made with tender cooked chicken, linguini, and a rich sauce of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese, this baked dish offers a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Sauce and Chicken Mixture
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 2 10.5 ounce cans cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or stock)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 chicken breasts (cooked and chopped)
Pasta and Cheese
- 16 ounces linguini (cooked according to package directions)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare the sauce and chicken mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a creamy, flavorful base. Then add the cooked, chopped chicken breasts and mix thoroughly to coat the chicken with the sauce.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked linguini into the bowl with the sauce and chicken mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated and evenly mixed with the sauce.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the combined pasta and sauce into a 9×13 inch glass baking dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Add cheese toppings: Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Then sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the mozzarella to add extra flavor and a golden crust when baked.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, and the sauce is bubbling at the edges.
- Cool and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
- You can use cooked rotisserie chicken as a shortcut for the chicken breasts.
- If you prefer, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein.
- Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or peas to the sauce for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft after baking.
