Name: Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 12 oz spaghetti, cooked; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 tbsp butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s simple to prepare and delivers rich, delicious flavors? Look no further than this easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe! This classic dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a bed of pasta, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests. Get ready to wow your taste buds! Keep reading to learn all the tips and tricks to make this dish flawlessly.

What is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic American pasta dish that blends tender chicken, mushrooms, and sometimes peas with a creamy sauce made from butter, cream, and cheese. Traditionally, it’s served over spaghetti or another long pasta, then baked in the oven until bubbly and golden. Named after the Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, this dish has earned its place as a crowd-pleaser at dinners across the country.

Ingredients List for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

For this easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen or can be easily found at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine (or any long pasta of your choice)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
¼ cup bread crumbs (for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Tetrazzini is its versatility! You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

Pasta: Feel free to substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or even penne if you prefer a shorter pasta.
Protein: If you don’t have chicken on hand, turkey or rotisserie chicken are great alternatives. You can also make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
Cheese: Swap out mozzarella with Swiss, Gruyère, or cheddar for a different flavor profile. For a sharper taste, you can add a bit more Parmesan or even some Pecorino Romano.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also use vegan butter to make the dish dairy-free.
Gluten-Free: Simply use gluten-free pasta and swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat the oven and cook the pasta: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking for another 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 4-5 minutes.
Add the seasonings and cheeses: Stir in the thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, cooking until they melt and the sauce becomes creamy.
Combine the pasta and chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat the chicken evenly. Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together so that the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

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

To cook the best Chicken Tetrazzini, focus on getting a balance between creamy, cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Here's a quick recap of the essential steps:

Cook the pasta until al dente and drain.
Prepare the vegetables by sautéing onions, mushrooms, and garlic.
Make the creamy sauce by creating a roux with butter and flour, then whisking in chicken broth and cream.
Add chicken and pasta to the sauce, ensuring an even coating.
Bake the dish for that crispy golden top while keeping the interior rich and creamy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Skipping the roux: The roux (flour and butter mixture) helps thicken the sauce. Skipping this step can leave you with a runny dish.
Using dry chicken: Be sure to use moist, flavorful chicken. Rotisserie chicken or poached chicken works well because it retains moisture.
Not seasoning properly: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the flavor of the sauce.
Not allowing the dish to rest: Letting the Chicken Tetrazzini rest for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Tetrazzini is a hearty dish that’s perfect for family-style serving or for individual portions if you’re hosting a more formal dinner. Here are a few serving and presentation tips:

Family-style: Serve Chicken Tetrazzini directly from the baking dish, placing it at the center of the table with a large serving spoon. Pair it with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.
Individual portions: If you’re serving a more formal meal, portion the Chicken Tetrazzini onto individual plates. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a polished look.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Tetrazzini

Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color to the dish.
Add a lemon wedge: A wedge of lemon on the side adds a touch of brightness to balance the creamy sauce.
Serve with crusty bread: Present your Chicken Tetrazzini alongside a basket of crusty garlic bread to soak up all the creamy sauce.

Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Tips

Use rotisserie chicken: If you're short on time, grab a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. It’s already cooked and packed with flavor.
Make ahead: Chicken Tetrazzini can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare the dish, cover, and refrigerate before baking. When ready to eat, pop it in the oven and bake until heated through.
Freeze leftovers: This dish freezes well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?
You can substitute turkey, ham, or even shrimp for chicken in this recipe.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. With simple ingredients and a few key tips, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a comforting meal for yourself, this Chicken Tetrazzini is sure to hit the spot. Be sure to experiment with the variations and make it your own! Happy cooking!