Before we get into the recipe, let me just say — this one is pure nostalgia in a casserole dish. It’s the kind of comforting, creamy, cheesy bake that makes the kitchen smell like home and the dinner table feel extra welcoming.
This Chicken Noodle Hot Dish, also known as chicken tetrazzini in some circles, has been in my family’s meal rotation for years. It’s hearty, it’s budget-friendly, and it’s the perfect way to make one rotisserie chicken stretch into a full meal for eight. And honestly? It’s even better the next day (hello, leftovers!).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a pan — creamy sauce, tender noodles, and melty cheese.
- Feeds a crowd — makes at least 8 hearty servings.
- Simple ingredients — most of them pantry staples.
- Family-friendly — picky eaters rarely say no to cheesy pasta.
What It Tastes Like
It’s rich, creamy, and savory — tender chicken and spaghetti noodles coated in a luscious sauce made from cream soups, cream cheese, and sour cream, then baked under a blanket of melted cheese. It’s like the coziest hug you can eat.
Ingredients
- Meat from 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ can chicken broth
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 box (16 oz) spaghetti noodles
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
- Pasta swap: Use egg noodles or penne instead of spaghetti.
- Extra veggies: Stir in peas, mushrooms, or broccoli before baking.
- Soup variation: Swap one can for cream of celery for a different flavor.
- Cheese choice: Monterey Jack, provolone, or a sharp cheddar all work beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook pasta: Boil spaghetti noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a large bowl, combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add cooked noodles to the sauce mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Assemble: Spread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top generously with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Enjoy hot, ideally with garlic bread and a simple salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
- Side salad with creamy ranch or Caesar dressing
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Hot Dish
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
- Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Add extra broth if you like a looser, creamier casserole.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven (covered with foil) or in the microwave.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely — just aim for about 3–4 cups of shredded chicken.
Do I have to use cream cheese?
The cream cheese gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture, but you can replace it with an extra ½ cup sour cream if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Noodle Hot Dish is the kind of recipe that makes weeknights feel a little bit special and Sunday dinners a whole lot easier. It’s creamy, filling, and made for sharing — a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll come back to again and again.
If you love comforting baked pasta dishes, you might also enjoy:
- Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage
- Broccoli Chicken Alfredo Casserole
- Tuna Noodle Bake with a Crunchy Topping
💬 Made this recipe? Share your photos on Pinterest or leave a review below — I’d love to see your hot dish!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 38g
- Sugar: 4g
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