Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe with Rotisserie Chicken

Need a  weeknight dinner? Try an easy chicken tetrazzini recipe with rotisserie chicken, basic ingredients—creamy, cheesy, & perfect for solving dinner stress!

Looking for a creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal? Chicken Tetrazzini is the answer. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a hit with family and friends.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Chicken Tetrazzini.

What Is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is a baked pasta casserole. It’s made with shredded chicken, fettuccini noodles, a creamy sauce, oh and plenty of cheese.

This classic comfort food got its name from the Italian opera singer, Luisa Tetrazzini. Even though it sounds fancy, it’s a simple recipe that anyone can make.

You’ll often find it at potlucks, holiday dinners, or just as a cozy weeknight meal. The creamy sauce mixed with pasta and cheese makes it irresistible.

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Ingredients for Chicken Tetrazzini 🧀

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• 16 ounces fettuccini
• 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of chicken soup (can use cream of mushroom soup instead if you prefer)
• 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 5 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 2-3 cups)
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

These simple ingredients come together to create something magical.

How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini

This Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is super easy and takes about a total time of one hour to make. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the fettuccini according to the package instructions in a large pot. Cook it until al dente, then drain and set aside. Follow cook time on box.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Cheese

Next, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, half the mozzarella, half the cheddar, and the cooked fettuccini to the sauce. Toss everything until well coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar on top.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 minutes. The cheese should be melted and slightly golden on top.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps everything set before serving.

That’s it! Total prep time is about 30 minutes. Baking takes 35 minutes. This recipe makes 8 servings.

Best Places to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

This dish is perfect for so many occasions. Here are some great ideas:

Weeknight Dinners

It’s easy enough for a busy night but feels like a special treat.

Potlucks and Parties

Everyone loves a cheesy pasta bake. It travels well and feeds a crowd.

Holiday Gatherings

Serve it at Thanksgiving or Christmas as a main dish or a hearty side. Or use up leftover turkey from holiday meals as a substitute for the chicken in this recipe.

Meal Trains

Bringing food to a friend in need? Chicken Tetrazzini is comforting and filling.

Leftover Lunches

It reheats well and tastes just as good the next day.

No matter where you serve it, this recipe is always a winner.

Variations to Try 🥘

Want to change things up? Here are a few fun ideas to make this recipe your own:

Swap the Meat

Use turkey, ham, or leftover roast chicken instead of rotisserie as the protein in this pasta casserole.

Add Veggies

Mix in peas, cremini mushrooms, onion, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.

Use Different Pasta

Try spaghetti, linguine, angel hair, or even penne if you don’t have fettuccini.

Change the Cheese

Use Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Gouda for a twist on flavor.

Make it Spicy

Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a little heat. Or mix in your othe favorite spices, like garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste, or other blends of seasonings.

These small changes can turn this classic dish into something new and exciting.

Can You Make Chicken Tetrazzini Ahead or Store It?

Yes, absolutely!

To Make Ahead

Prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover it and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add 5-10 more minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.

To Freeze

Chicken Tetrazzini freezes well. After assembling, cover tightly with foil and freeze. It can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

To Store Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.

This makes it a great option for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.

Common Questions About Chicken Tetrazzini 🤔

Here are some frequently asked questions about this baked chicken casserole.

Is Chicken Tetrazzini Italian?

Not really. It was created in the U.S. but named after an Italian singer. It has an Italian vibe for a cheesy pasta bake, though.

Can I make it without canned soup?

Yes, you can use a homemade white sauce instead. Mix butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth to create your own base. Or follow this recipe for making your own homemade cream of chicken soup.

Is it okay to use fresh chicken?

Of course! Just cook and shred about 3 cups of chicken breast, tenderloins, or thighs.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Fettuccini works great, but you can use spaghetti, linguine, or egg noodles.

How do I make it less rich?

You can reduce the cream cheese or use low-fat sour cream and cheese. Also, add more broth to thin the sauce a bit.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the canned soup with a gluten-free version or homemade sauce.

What sides go with Chicken Tetrazzini?

Serve it with garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

Final Thoughts💬

Chicken Tetrazzini is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s easy to prepare and makes a great meal for any day of the week. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers comfort in every bite.

Want to give it a try? Save this recipe and make it this week! 📝

And if you loved it, don’t forget to share it with others. Leave a comment and let us know your favorite variation!

More Easy Chicken Dinners:

• Rotisserie Chicken & Dumplings
• White Chicken Chili
• Hawaiian Haystacks
• Instant Pot Chicken Stroganoff

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