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Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini

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Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini

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When it comes to classic comfort food, Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini is a family favorite that never disappoints. This rich and cheesy baked pasta dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked linguini, and a luscious cream sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect recipe for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you’re craving something warm and hearty.

Whether you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing casserole or a satisfying make-ahead meal, this chicken tetrazzini casserole delivers both flavor and convenience.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep work.
  • Family-friendly: A dish both kids and adults will love.
  • Freezer-friendly: Double the recipe and freeze one for later.
  • Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to fit your taste.
  • Perfect for gatherings: Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.

Ingredients Breakdown

Understanding the key ingredients will help you make the best chicken tetrazzini from scratch:

  • Linguini: Adds a delicate texture that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides a rich and savory flavor base.
  • Cream Cheese: Creates that irresistible creamy texture.
  • Sour Cream: Balances the richness with a slight tang.
  • Chicken Broth: Enhances flavor while keeping the pasta moist.
  • Shredded Chicken: A great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken.
  • Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese: The perfect combination of melty and sharp flavors.
  • Garlic & Spices: Elevate the dish with a burst of aroma and seasoning.

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Tips and Tricks

  • Cook pasta al dente: Boil linguini one minute less than the package directions to prevent mushiness.
  • Use rotisserie chicken: Saves time and adds extra flavor.
  • Shred cheese yourself: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
  • Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving to help the sauce set.

Variations and Customizations

  • Vegetable boost: Add peas, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Protein swaps: Substitute chicken with turkey, ham, or even shrimp.
  • Cheese lovers: Mix in Parmesan or Gruyere for a more complex flavor.
  • Low-carb version: Replace linguini with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy baked pasta pairs well with:

  • Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls
  • A crisp green salad with Italian dressing
  • Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus
  • A glass of Chardonnay or iced tea for a refreshing balance

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Popular Questions

1. Can I make chicken tetrazzini ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze chicken tetrazzini?
Absolutely. Prepare, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 15 minutes to the cooking time.

3. What’s the best pasta for tetrazzini?
Linguini is classic, but spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne also work well.

4. Can I make it lighter?
Use light cream cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese for a healthier version.

Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini
Caroline

Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini

A rich and comforting baked pasta dish made with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and plenty of melty cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or potlucks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 525
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb linguini
  • 0.25 cup butter, softened
  • 2 cans (10 oz each) cream of chicken soup
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • kosher salt, to taste
  • 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Equipment

  • large pot for pasta
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • 9×13-inch baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Boil linguini in salted water, 1 minute less than the package suggests. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, garlic, sour cream, chicken broth, parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
  4. Stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar. Fold in shredded chicken and cooked pasta until evenly coated.
  5. Transfer mixture to prepared dish and top with remaining cheese.
  6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving for the creamiest texture.

Notes

  • Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or family dinners.
  • Double the batch and freeze one for a quick future meal.
  • Customize with different cheeses or veggies for variety.

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