Chicken Tetrazzini Soup Recipe
There is something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Chicken Tetrazzini Soup Recipe that brings warmth to both the body and soul. This hearty soup takes inspiration from the classic chicken tetrazzini casserole but presents it in a luscious, broth-filled form that’s perfect for cozy dinners or anytime you crave a satisfying meal in a bowl. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy, cheesy broth infused with herbs and veggies, this soup manages to be both elegant and homey at once. It’s a dish I love sharing with friends because it feels like a special treat that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Tetrazzini Soup Recipe is in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component, from the aromatic herbs to the creamy Parmesan, plays an essential role in building the comforting and rich character of the soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the aromatics to bring out their flavors.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked gently at the start.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant kick that awakens the palate.
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Brings natural sweetness along with a bit of texture and color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Offers a mild, savory crunch and rounds out the vegetable base.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a warm, slightly peppery flavor enhancing the soup’s character.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that melds all the ingredients together.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: The star protein, tender and ready to soak up the broth.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Adds umami depth and a meaty texture.
- 1 cup uncooked spaghetti, broken into smaller pieces: Provides comforting noodles that thicken the soup as they cook.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that transforms the broth into a silky dream.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a salty, nutty richness that is signature to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Lends a fresh, vibrant finish to your served soup.
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic fragrant. This step releases the foundational flavors that will infuse the entire soup, so take your time here and stir occasionally to avoid browning.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Herbs
Next, toss in the diced carrots and celery along with dried thyme and oregano. Cook everything together for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables start to soften. The herbs will bloom in the warm oil, giving the broth those warm, inviting notes that make this soup so memorable.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Simmer
Pour the 6 cups of chicken broth into the pot, scraping the bottom to capture all those lovely browned bits from the veggies. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. This simmering allows the flavors to meld, setting the stage for the next ingredients.
Step 4: Introduce Chicken and Mushrooms
Add the cooked chicken and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Let them cook together for about 5 minutes so the mushrooms can release their earthy juices, and the chicken warms through, absorbing the herb-infused broth.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Now stir in the broken spaghetti pieces. Let the pasta cook right in the simmering soup for 8 to 10 minutes until tender but still holding its shape. This not only thickens the soup slightly but also ensures every spoonful has that comforting noodle bite reminiscent of traditional tetrazzini.
Step 6: Add Cream and Parmesan
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the soup thickens into a smooth, creamy delight. Be careful not to boil after adding the cream to keep it silky and prevent curdling.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Finish with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness, and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini Soup Recipe

Garnishes
While the chopped parsley adds a refreshing touch, you can also try a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for a glossy finish. If you like a little heat, a few red pepper flakes on top also elevate the flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup shines wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which cuts through the creaminess. Crunchy garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also pair perfectly, allowing you to scoop every last bit up.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in rustic bowls topped with a cheese crisp or a parmesan tuile for a restaurant-style flair. Alternatively, ladle the soup into large mugs for a cozy, casual vibe, ideal for chilly afternoons or casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the soup will keep fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a convenient next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this Chicken Tetrazzini Soup Recipe without sacrificing much of its texture or flavor. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. Frozen soup is best enjoyed within 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, warm gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back to a pleasing consistency.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time. Just shred or dice it, then add it in step 4 as instructed.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter soup, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works well and adds a subtle sweetness.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Start by sautéing the aromatics and veggies on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, herbs, and chicken, then cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Add pasta, cream, and Parmesan in the last 30 minutes and stir well.
Is it okay to use different pasta shapes?
Definitely. While traditional spaghetti broken into smaller pieces is classic, small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini work perfectly and cook evenly in the soup.
How spicy is this Chicken Tetrazzini Soup Recipe?
This soup is mild and comforting, focusing on savory, creamy, and herbaceous flavors. However, you can spice it up by adding crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or as a garnish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cozy, creamy, and deeply satisfying meal, this Chicken Tetrazzini Soup Recipe is one you absolutely have to try. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you want to elevate simple ingredients into something truly special. Once you make it, I guarantee it will become a cherished favorite in your recipe rotation.
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Chicken Tetrazzini Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Tetrazzini Soup is a comforting and creamy Italian-inspired soup featuring tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, mushrooms, and spaghetti noodles all simmered in a flavorful chicken broth, finished with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a rich, satisfying meal perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 cups chicken broth
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup uncooked spaghetti, broken into smaller pieces
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Cook Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Add Chicken and Mushrooms: Incorporate the cooked, shredded or diced chicken and sliced mushrooms into the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook Pasta: Stir in the broken spaghetti pieces and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts fully and the soup thickens slightly.
- Season and Garnish: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup will be less rich.
- Use gluten-free spaghetti if you require a gluten-free diet.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop.
- Adding a splash of white wine during the broth step can enhance the flavor profile.
- For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding chicken and pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American