Name: Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tbsp butter, melted; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup chicken broth or stock; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped (rotisserie chicken works great); 12 oz linguini, cooked al dente; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it’s the ultimate combination of simplicity and comfort. With just a few pantry staples and leftover chicken, I can make a delicious baked pasta dinner that everyone loves. The creamy sauce comes together in minutes, and the golden cheese topping adds the perfect finishing touch. I like that I can easily customize it by adding vegetables or swapping cheeses to suit whatever I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 tablespoons butter
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
salt and black pepper to taste
3 cups cooked chicken, chopped
12 oz linguini, cooked al dente
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, I stir together the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper until smooth.
I add the cooked, chopped chicken and stir until it’s evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
I fold in the linguini gently so that it’s completely covered but not broken.
I pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
I top it with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
I bake it for 40 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.
I let it rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving—it helps the sauce thicken and makes it easier to serve.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. The prep time is 15 minutes, and the bake time is 40 minutes, for a total of 55 minutes.

Variations

I like to use rotisserie chicken when I’m short on time—it makes prep effortless.
For extra flavor, I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or chopped spinach to the mixture.
Swapping half the mozzarella for cheddar gives the dish a sharper, richer flavor.
I’ve also used spaghetti or fettuccine when I don’t have linguini—it works just as well.
A sprinkle of breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top gives it a delicious crispy finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. It can also be reheated in the microwave in 1-minute intervals. If I plan to freeze it, I wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it keeps well for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it earlier in the day, cover it, and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake. I just add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What type of chicken works best?

I usually use cooked shredded or cubed chicken breast, but rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken also works perfectly.

Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?

Absolutely. I’ve made a quick homemade version using 1 cup of milk whisked with 1 tablespoon of flour and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat until thickened. Then, I add a pinch of salt and pepper.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! I love adding sautéed mushrooms, peas, or even broccoli florets for color and nutrition.

How can I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

I cook the pasta just until al dente—about 1–2 minutes less than package directions—since it continues to cook while baking.

Conclusion

I love how this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini delivers big comfort with minimal effort. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and melted cheese come together perfectly for a family-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet simple. Whether I’m feeding guests or just craving something cozy, this recipe always satisfies and brings a little warmth to the table.