Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

Looking for a delicious, creamy, and comforting pasta dish that’s sure to please the whole family? Chicken Tetrazzini is the perfect solution! This classic dish features tender chicken, creamy sauce, and savory mushrooms, all tossed together with pasta and baked to golden perfection. Plus, it’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. The best part? You can make this dish with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. Keep reading to find out how to make this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe in no time!

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What is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic American pasta casserole typically made with shredded or diced chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that’s enriched with broth, cream, and cheese. It’s then baked until bubbly and golden, with the sauce coating every strand of pasta. The dish is named after Italian opera star Luisa Tetrazzini, though the recipe itself is not Italian—it’s a true comfort food that has been popular in American households for generations. Perfect for family meals or potlucks, Chicken Tetrazzini is a satisfying dish that is as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients List for Chicken Tetrazzini

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to make this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine (you can also use egg noodles)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional, but adds great flavor)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Substitutions and Variations

If you need to make some tweaks to the recipe, here are a few substitutions and variations that still keep the dish delicious:

• Chicken: Swap out the chicken with turkey if you have leftovers from a holiday dinner, or use rotisserie chicken for an even easier option.
• Pasta: Feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand—penne, rotini, or linguine all work well if you don’t have spaghetti or fettuccine.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative, and use a plant-based cheese to make the recipe dairy-free.
• Vegetables: Add peas, spinach, or broccoli to sneak in extra veggies and give the dish even more flavor and texture.
• Cheese: You can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses in place of or along with Parmesan or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Breadcrumb topping: If you want extra crunch, mix some breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them over the top before baking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Tetrazzini in a few easy steps. It’s a straightforward dish that anyone can master!

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti (or your preferred pasta) according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

1. Cook the mushrooms: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Create the sauce base: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors come together. Then, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and sour cream.
2. Season the sauce: Add the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir in 1 cup of shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese, and continue cooking the sauce over low heat until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Tetrazzini

1. Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
2. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a large greased baking dish or casserole dish.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

1. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top of the casserole. For a crunchy topping, you can also sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese.
2. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Chicken Tetrazzini for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
3. Let it rest: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to avoid them:

1. Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente (with a slight bite) as it will continue cooking in the oven.
2. Using too much liquid: Be careful not to add too much chicken broth or cream, or the sauce can become too runny. Stick to the recipe measurements for the right consistency.
3. Skipping the rest time: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This gives the sauce time to thicken up and ensures easier slicing and serving.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving Chicken Tetrazzini, a few simple touches can elevate the dish:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the top for added color and flavor.
• Serve with sides: Pair this rich, creamy dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve family-style: Bring the baking dish directly to the table for a cozy, family-style presentation. Let everyone help themselves!

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

Chicken Tetrazzini is best served hot, straight from the oven. Use a large spoon or spatula to serve generous portions onto plates or bowls. This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

• With garlic bread: A slice of buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Alongside a salad: A fresh, simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the Tetrazzini.
• With roasted vegetables: Try serving it with roasted broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Tetrazzini

Here are a few ideas to make your Chicken Tetrazzini look even more inviting:

• Sprinkle with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or basil can add a pop of color and freshness to the top of the casserole.
• Individual portions: For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions of Chicken Tetrazzini in small, oven-safe ramekins or mini casserole dishes.
• Serve from a cast iron skillet: If you want a rustic look, bake and serve the dish in a cast-iron skillet. It adds charm and keeps the food hot for longer!

Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Easy Chicken Tetrazzini turns out perfectly every time:

• Use leftover chicken: This dish is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken works especially well and adds extra flavor.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Freezing: Chicken Tetrazzini freezes well! Make the dish up to the point of baking, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake it, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely. While

spaghetti or fettuccine are traditional, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, rotini, or even egg noodles.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
A: Yes! Chicken Tetrazzini freezes beautifully. Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover it with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and bake as directed.

Q: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: To lighten the dish, you can use whole wheat pasta, swap heavy cream for low-fat milk or Greek yogurt, and use less cheese. You can also add more vegetables, like peas or spinach, for extra nutrients.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting a potluck, or looking for a meal to feed a crowd, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite pasta, cheeses, and vegetables. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal that’s sure to become a household favorite!

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