Creamy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

This Creamy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini is a rich, cheesy, and comforting pasta dish perfect for family dinners. Made with tender rotisserie chicken, a luscious cream sauce, and a blend of melty cheeses, this easy baked version is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it warm for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy – A luxurious sauce with cream cheese, sour cream, and melted cheese.
• Easy to Make – Uses rotisserie chicken and simple pantry ingredients for a hassle-free meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Can be made ahead and baked when ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly – A comforting dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Customizable – Add veggies, spice, or alternative pasta options to suit your preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Protein:

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded

Pasta:

• 16 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

Sauce:

• 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cheese:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Other:

• ¼ cup butter
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta – Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce – In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth until smooth. Mix in sour cream, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Assemble the Dish – In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded rotisserie chicken, and the creamy sauce. Toss until well coated.
4. Add the Cheese – Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
5. Bake to Perfection – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve & Enjoy – Garnish with dried parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Veggie Boost – Stir in sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach for added flavor and texture.
• Low-Carb Option – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Dairy-Free Version – Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Gluten-Free Alternative – Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free thickener for the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Freezing – Freeze unbaked tetrazzini for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni all work well in this dish.

Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom or homemade white sauce as an alternative.

How do I make this dish ahead of time?

Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes! Cook and shred about 3 cups of chicken breasts or thighs.

What sides go well with chicken tetrazzini?

Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables make great side options.

Can I add mushrooms to this recipe?

Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms add great flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish without baking it?

Yes, you can serve it straight from the stovetop, but baking enhances the texture and flavor.

Why is my sauce too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein.

How do I get a crispy top?

For a crispier topping, mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and sprinkle on top before baking.

Conclusion

This Creamy Baked Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether made ahead or enjoyed fresh from the oven, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers. Try it today and enjoy a cozy, home-cooked meal!

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