If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole that packs layers of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, the Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is your answer. This dish combines tender rotisserie chicken, luscious cheeses, and perfectly cooked spaghetti in a creamy mushroom and chicken soup base that turns simple pantry staples into a golden-baked masterpiece. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Though the ingredients for this Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe might seem straightforward, each one plays an essential role in building its rich texture, deep flavor, and appealing golden top. From the tangy cream cheese to the melty mozzarella and the earthy mushrooms, every component contributes something special.
- Spaghetti (16 oz): The perfect pasta base that absorbs all the creamy sauce beautifully without becoming mushy.
- Rotisserie chicken (meat removed and chopped): Provides tender, flavorful protein with minimal prep time.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can): Adds savory richness and a silky consistency to the sauce.
- Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5 oz can): Brings a subtle umami depth and creaminess.
- Sour cream (¼ cup): Gives a touch of tang and enhances the creaminess.
- Cottage cheese (1 cup): Adds a lovely texture and mild flavor while keeping it light.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Ensures the sauce turns luxuriously smooth and thick.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Loosens the mixture just enough for a moist, saucy casserole.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a gentle spiciness that balances the creamy components.
- Garlic powder (¼ tsp): Infuses a subtle aromatic warmth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Provides a nutty finish and a golden crust when baked.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey topping.
- Dried parsley (2 tsp): Sprinkles fresh color and a mild herbaceous note on top.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to a moderate 300ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple prep step sets the stage for a perfectly baked casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook your spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s just tender. Drain well so the noodles aren’t watery, which helps the sauce cling better. Properly cooked pasta is essential for the texture of your Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe.
Step 3: Combine the Creamy Mix
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your chopped rotisserie chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is blended smoothly, then fold in the cooked spaghetti. This luscious mixture is what turns a simple casserole into a gourmet comfort dish.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour your creamy chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, distributing it evenly. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then finish with the dried parsley. Cover everything tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the covered dish for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden cheese has melted into a gorgeous crust. This final step seals in all those wonderful flavors and textures.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil leaves on top adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole. For a little crunch, toast some sliced almonds or breadcrumbs and scatter them on before serving.
Side Dishes
Serve this hearty Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These lighter sides cut through the richness beautifully and provide balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting touch, serve portions in individual ramekins or cast iron skillets. You can also add a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving for an extra layer of indulgence and aroma.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy meals during busy weeks.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Place cooled portions or the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Frozen casseroles last around 2 to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in the oven at 350ºF until heated through, about 20 minutes if thawed. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time. You can also microwave single portions, but the oven preserves texture best.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned soup?
Absolutely! You can sauté fresh mushrooms with a bit of butter and incorporate them with a homemade creamy sauce if you prefer a fresher taste. Just keep the sauce thick enough to hold the casserole together.
What type of chicken works best in this recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is perfect because it’s fully cooked and flavorful, saving time. However, leftover cooked chicken or even shredded turkey can be wonderful substitutions depending on what you have on hand.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the spaghetti for a gluten-free pasta variety and ensure that your soups and broth are gluten-free brands. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy, cheesy experience without gluten.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding peas, mushrooms, or even diced bell peppers can add some fresh texture and variety, giving the casserole more color and nutrients without compromising flavor.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Making this exact recipe dairy-free or vegan would need some substitutions such as dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives or coconut-based products. Plant-based cheeses and soups can also help, but it would change the classic flavor somewhat.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe. It’s the ultimate cozy casserole that delivers on flavor, texture, and ease all at once. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try — your family and guests will be raving about it long after the last bite!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini is a rich and creamy baked pasta casserole featuring tender rotisserie chicken, a blend of savory cream soups, cheeses, and spaghetti. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, delivering cheesy, flavorful goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 1 (16-oz) package spaghetti
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken, meat removed and chopped
Sauce Mixture
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of mushroom soup
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
Topping
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 300ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set this aside for later.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped rotisserie chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and uniform. Then fold in the cooked spaghetti, ensuring the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the prepared chicken and pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and dried parsley on top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture during baking.
- Bake Covered: Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through evenly.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Enjoy your rich and creamy Million Dollar Chicken Tetrazzini!
Notes
- You can use any cooked chicken if rotisserie chicken is unavailable.
- For a lower-fat version, opt for low-fat sour cream and cheese varieties.
- Adding mushrooms or peas can add extra texture and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Make sure the cream cheeses are softened for easy mixing.
