This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is everything a cozy pasta bake should be—creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day. With just a handful of pantry staples and a super simple prep, this recipe comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something hearty, comforting, and downright delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Prep, Big Flavor: Just 15 minutes of prep time is all you need before it heads into the oven. Perfect for nights when you’re short on energy but still want something homemade and satisfying.
Creamy & Cheesy Comfort: Between the velvety sauce and the golden melted cheese on top, this dish checks all the comfort food boxes.
Family Favorite: Kids love it, adults devour it—there’s something irresistible about this blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness.
Great for Leftovers: Tetrazzini keeps well and reheats beautifully, making it a smart option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this luscious Chicken Tetrazzini—and why each one matters:

Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps create a smooth, velvety sauce.
Cream of Chicken Soup: The base of the sauce—ultra creamy, flavorful, and saves time without sacrificing taste.
Sour Cream: Gives the sauce a tangy richness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
Chicken Broth or Stock: Thins out the sauce slightly and infuses it with extra chicken flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out all the flavors—don’t skip them.
Cooked Chicken: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Chop it bite-sized for even distribution.
Linguini: Long, flat pasta that holds the sauce well and gives the dish its signature texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully over the top for that irresistible gooey finish.
Parmesan Cheese: A touch of salty, nutty flavor that enhances every bite of the bake.

Variations

Want to switch things up or make it your own? Try these easy variations:

Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas for a little color and extra nutrients.
Use a Different Pasta: Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even egg noodles can easily take the place of linguini.
Swap the Protein: Turkey, ham, or even canned tuna work great if you don’t have chicken on hand.
Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a bit of heat and depth.

How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Pasta

Stir in the cooked, chopped chicken until it’s fully coated in the sauce. Then fold in the cooked linguini, making sure all the noodles are evenly covered.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the creamy pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch glass baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top, then finish with a layer of grated parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Place the dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Let it cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up and makes it easier to scoop.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta since it will continue to soften in the oven.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: It’s a huge time saver and adds great flavor.
Shred Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese gives you that silky, melty finish.
Mix Gently: Don’t over-stir the pasta into the sauce or it may break apart and turn mushy.

How to Serve

This creamy pasta bake is satisfying on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it a complete meal:

With Sides:

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.
Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce.

Garnish Ideas:

Fresh parsley or basil for color and a pop of freshness.
A sprinkle of extra parmesan just before serving adds an extra layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

Chicken Tetrazzini freezes very well! Wrap tightly in foil or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time and bake it later?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as directed.

What’s the best chicken to use for this recipe?
Cooked chicken breasts, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover grilled chicken all work wonderfully. Just make sure it’s chopped into small, bite-sized pieces so it mixes evenly with the pasta.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free linguini and be sure to check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. Everything else should be naturally gluten-free.

Is it possible to lighten up this dish?
You can use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories, and swap regular pasta for a whole wheat or chickpea version for extra fiber. It’ll still taste indulgent!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is the kind of recipe that quickly earns a spot in your regular rotation. It’s warm, filling, and crowd-pleasing in every way—plus it’s so simple, even on your busiest nights. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this creamy chicken pasta bake delivers all the cozy vibes with minimal effort. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!