Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep? Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that features tender chicken, spaghetti, and a rich sauce baked to golden perfection. The best part? This version is super easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal prep. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or feeding your family, this easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is bound to be a hit!

What Is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic American casserole made with pasta (usually spaghetti), chicken, mushrooms, a creamy sauce, and topped with cheese. It’s named after the famous Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, but the dish itself is an American invention. The creamy sauce is typically made from a combination of cream or milk, chicken broth, and cheese, with the dish baked until bubbly and golden brown. It's an ultimate comfort food perfect for cozy weeknight meals or potlucks.

Ingredients List for Chicken Tetrazzini

To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Main Dish:

1. Cooked chicken (3 cups, shredded or diced) – You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or quickly cook some boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
2. Spaghetti (12 oz) – Traditional pasta choice for tetrazzini, but you can substitute with linguine or fettuccine.
3. Butter (4 tbsp) – For sautéing vegetables and making the creamy sauce.
4. Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced) – Adds an earthy, savory flavor.
5. Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced) – Essential for depth of flavor.
6. All-purpose flour (¼ cup) – To thicken the sauce.
7. Chicken broth (2 cups) – Adds flavor and creates the base of the sauce.
8. Heavy cream or milk (1 ½ cups) – For a rich, creamy sauce.
9. Sour cream (½ cup) – Adds tang and creaminess to the sauce.
10. Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup) – Adds cheesy goodness to the sauce and on top.
11. Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts beautifully on top of the casserole.
12. Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Essential seasonings.
13. Fresh parsley or thyme (for garnish, optional) – Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Optional Ingredients for Chicken Tetrazzini

Want to give your tetrazzini a unique twist or add more complexity to the dish? Consider adding the following optional ingredients:

1. Peas (1 cup, frozen) – Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
2. White wine (¼ cup) – Use it to deglaze the pan after sautéing the mushrooms for a richer sauce.
3. Onions (1 small, diced) – Sauté with the mushrooms for extra flavor.
4. Breadcrumbs (½ cup, for topping) – Creates a crispy layer on top.
5. Bacon (4 slices, cooked and crumbled) – Adds smokiness and crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Here are some substitutions and variations based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences:

• Turkey Tetrazzini: Replace the chicken with leftover turkey—this is an excellent way to use up Thanksgiving turkey.
• Pasta alternatives: Try egg noodles, penne, or fettuccine if you prefer a different type of pasta.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Lighter option: Substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter version. You can also use light sour cream.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to make this easy and delicious Chicken Tetrazzini from start to finish.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Push the mushrooms to one side of the skillet and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens (about 4-5 minutes).

Step 4: Add Cheese and Sour Cream

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in sour cream, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and the creamy sauce. If using optional peas, toss them in as well. Mix everything together until the chicken and pasta are well-coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture to a large 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. If using breadcrumbs or bacon, sprinkle those on top as well for added texture and flavor.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the tetrazzini from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired, and serve hot!

How to Cook Easy Chicken Tetrazzini: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of how to make Chicken Tetrazzini:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and cook the spaghetti until al dente.
2. Sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until golden.
3. Make the sauce by creating a roux, then adding broth, cream, sour cream, and cheese.
4. Combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce in a mixing bowl.
5. Assemble the casserole, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While Chicken Tetrazzini is easy to make, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s outcome. Avoid these:

• Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook the spaghetti just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, so if it’s too soft, it could turn mushy.
• Forgetting to season the sauce: Taste your sauce before combining it with the pasta to ensure it’s properly seasoned. The cheese adds saltiness, but you may need a bit more salt or pepper.
• Skipping the cheese topping: The cheesy, bubbly top is one of the best parts of this dish! Don’t skimp on the mozzarella or Parmesan.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your Chicken Tetrazzini is ready, here are some tips to make your presentation extra special.

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

• With a green salad: Serve a simple green salad on the side to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Garlic bread or rolls: A slice of garlic bread or some soft dinner rolls make the perfect accompaniment for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• With roasted vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a healthy, colorful plate.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Tetrazzini

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or basil adds a pop of color and brightness to the dish.
• Serve in individual ramekins: For a more elegant presentation, bake the tetrazzini in individual ramekins or mini casseroles.
• Add a crispy breadcrumb topping: If you’re using breadcrumbs, toast them first in a little butter, then sprinkle over the top for a golden, crunchy crust.

Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Tips

• Make-ahead: Chicken Tetrazzini can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
• Freeze leftovers: This dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until warmed through.
• Double the recipe: If you’re cooking for a large crowd or want leftovers, you can easily double this recipe and bake it in a larger dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Linguine, fettuccine, or even penne would work well in this recipe.

Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute milk for the heavy cream, but the sauce may be a little less rich. You can use whole milk or even half-and-half for a lighter version.

Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container.

How do I prevent the dish from being too dry?
Be sure to use enough sauce to coat the pasta well. The sauce will thicken as it bakes, so if it seems a little too thick, add a splash of milk or broth before baking.

Conclusion

Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy, comforting casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a rich sauce, this dish is a hit with the whole family. Plus, it’s versatile, easy to prepare ahead, and a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that will become a regular in your dinner rotation!

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