Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting, creamy pasta dish loaded with succulent chicken, hearty mushrooms, and a deliciously rich sauce. It's a perfect weeknight dinner for families or a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and gatherings. With its savory flavors and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll want to read this entire recipe to learn all the tips and tricks to make it just right. Follow along to discover how you can prepare this mouthwatering meal, complete with ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips!

What is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is an American pasta dish traditionally made with diced chicken or turkey, mushrooms, and a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce. It’s typically baked until bubbly and golden brown, then served piping hot. The name "Tetrazzini" is believed to be in honor of the famous Italian opera singer, Luisa Tetrazzini. While variations exist, most versions of this dish are based on a few key ingredients that give it its signature flavor and texture.

Ingredients List for Chicken Tetrazzini

To prepare Chicken Tetrazzini, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken: 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast (rotisserie chicken works well).
• Spaghetti: 12 oz of dried spaghetti or other long pasta.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for sautéing.
• Mushrooms: 8 oz of sliced white or cremini mushrooms.
• Garlic: 2 cloves of minced garlic.
• Flour: ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce).
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth.
• Milk: 1 ½ cups of whole milk.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup of heavy cream for extra richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan.
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for added flavor).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to customize your Chicken Tetrazzini recipe, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make without compromising on flavor.

• Pasta Substitutions: Swap spaghetti for fettuccine, linguine, or penne for a heartier bite. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is traditional, you can add a mixture of cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Swiss for more depth.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add extra veggies like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Protein Variations: Substitute chicken with turkey, ham, or even shrimp for a different twist. You could also make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding more mushrooms or plant-based alternatives.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow this easy-to-follow guide for making Chicken Tetrazzini:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for about 5-6 minutes until they're golden brown and tender. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes. Remove the mushroom mixture from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the milk and cream, and bring the mixture to a simmer until it thickens.
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cheddar (if using), allowing the cheeses to melt into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, remove it from the heat.
6. Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy cheese sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly.
8. Bake: Bake the Chicken Tetrazzini uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

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

Cooking Chicken Tetrazzini is a simple process that involves a few main steps: cooking the pasta, preparing the sauce, and combining everything before baking. Here’s a quick breakdown:

1. Prepare your Ingredients: Measure and prepare all your ingredients beforehand to make the cooking process smoother.
2. Cook the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Make the Sauce: The sauce is the key to a rich and creamy Tetrazzini, so whisk constantly while making it to avoid lumps.
4. Combine Everything: Ensure the sauce fully coats the chicken and pasta before baking for maximum flavor distribution.
5. Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on the baking dish to prevent over-browning. The top should be golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While Chicken Tetrazzini is a straightforward dish, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Always cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften in the oven.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients, particularly the chicken and cheese, are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cause the sauce to seize up.
• Skipping the Roux: Don’t skip making the roux (butter and flour mixture). It’s crucial for thickening the sauce.
• Underseasoning: Remember to taste your sauce before assembling the casserole. Proper seasoning is key to a flavorful dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting and rustic dish, but that doesn't mean you can't serve it with a touch of elegance! Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

• Family-Style: Chicken Tetrazzini is best served family-style in its baking dish, allowing guests to scoop portions at the table. Serve with a side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Individual Portions: If you're serving at a dinner party, consider plating individual portions with a garnish of fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Tetrazzini

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Parmesan Crust: Before baking, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for a crispy golden crust.
• Layering Effect: For a more elevated look, you can layer the chicken, pasta, and sauce evenly in individual ramekins and bake them for a personal touch.

Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Tips

• Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover roast chicken or turkey.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the entire dish up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, just bake it as directed.
• Freeze for Later: Chicken Tetrazzini freezes beautifully! Just wrap the unbaked dish tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Simply bake when you're ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
A: Absolutely. Just wrap the unbaked casserole in foil and freeze. Thaw it overnight before baking.

Q: What sides go well with Chicken Tetrazzini?
A: Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, and steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus are great accompaniments.

Q: Can I use different pasta?
A: Yes, while spaghetti is traditional, you can use any long pasta or even short pasta like penne or rotini.

Q: How do I prevent the Tetrazzini from drying out?
A: Make sure you don’t overbake it. Also, ensuring the sauce is rich and creamy before baking will help keep the dish moist.

Conclusion

Chicken Tetrazzini is a rich, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and more. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness all baked to perfection, it’s no wonder this dish has been a long-time favorite. By following this easy recipe, you’ll create a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Don’t forget to try the substitutions and variations to make it your own, and enjoy every bite!

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