Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting classic that brings together tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all tossed with pasta and baked to golden perfection. The best part? This easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd, with simple ingredients and a fuss-free method. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit!

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What is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is an Italian-American casserole traditionally made with chicken or turkey, spaghetti or other pasta, mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s named after the famous Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, although the dish itself was created in the United States. This comforting dish is often topped with cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pasta makes Chicken Tetrazzini a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Tetrazzini

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe. Simple pantry ingredients come together to create a hearty, flavorful meal.

For the Tetrazzini:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or cook your own.
• 12 ounces spaghetti – Traditional choice, but you can substitute with other pasta types like fettuccine or linguine.
• 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds a sweet, savory flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings out more depth in the dish.
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced – Cremini or button mushrooms work well.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – To thicken the sauce.
• 2 cups chicken broth – Forms the base of the sauce and adds a savory flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For a rich, creamy sauce.
• ½ cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For the creamy sauce and topping.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and umami to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – For a hint of herbal flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.

For Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional) – For a crispy topping.
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan – Extra cheese for a golden topping.

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Substitutions and Variations

You can easily modify this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

• Turkey: You can swap chicken for leftover turkey, making this a great post-holiday recipe.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.
• Lightened-up version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce. Greek yogurt can also substitute for sour cream.
• Add vegetables: For more texture and nutrition, add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli.
• Cheese options: Swap out mozzarella for cheddar, Gruyère, or even Swiss for a different flavor profile.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe breaks down into simple steps. Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious casserole ready in no time!

1. 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.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and the onions soften. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

3. Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.

4. Add the Cheese and Seasonings

Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the sour cream, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

5. Combine Chicken and Pasta

Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce, and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Make sure the chicken and pasta are well combined with the creamy sauce.

6. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture to a large greased casserole dish (about 9x13 inches).

7. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs

For a crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs and extra cheese over the top of the casserole.

8. Bake

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

9. Serve

Let the Chicken Tetrazzini cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy!

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

Here’s a quick recap to make sure your Chicken Tetrazzini turns out perfect:

1. Cook the spaghetti: Al dente pasta is best, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
2. Sauté the mushrooms, onions, and garlic: This builds flavor for the sauce.
3. Make the creamy sauce: Use chicken broth, cream, and cheese for a rich sauce.
4. Mix the chicken, pasta, and sauce: Combine everything in the skillet before transferring to a casserole dish.
5. Top and bake: Add breadcrumbs and cheese, then bake until golden brown and bubbly.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Chicken Tetrazzini turns out delicious and creamy every time:

• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when baked.
• Not seasoning enough: The sauce relies on good seasoning to bring out all the flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
• Using too little liquid: The sauce should be creamy, not dry, so don’t be afraid to add a little extra chicken broth if the mixture seems too thick before baking.
• Skipping the breadcrumb topping: Breadcrumbs provide a nice crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta—don’t skip this step if you like a little texture.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Tetrazzini is best served hot, straight from the oven. Here’s how to present it beautifully and make the meal feel special:

• Serve family-style: Place the casserole dish on the table and let everyone dig in.
• Individual portions: Spoon the tetrazzini into individual bowls or plates and top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
• Pair with sides: Serve with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

Chicken Tetrazzini is versatile and can be paired with various sides to make a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic bread: A slice of buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
• Side salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or carrots add nutrition and color to the plate.

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Presentation Ideas for Chicken Tetrazzini

Take your presentation up a notch with these creative ideas:

• Cast-iron serving: Bake and serve the Chicken Tetrazzini in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic look.
• Breadcrumb and cheese crust: Sprinkle extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs on top and broil for a couple of minutes at the end to achieve a beautifully golden, crispy crust.
• Individual ramekins: For a more elegant presentation, bake the tetrazzini in individual ramekins or small baking dishes.

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Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Tips

Follow these tips to ensure your Chicken Tetrazzini turns out perfect every time:

• Make ahead: You can assemble the tetrazzini ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
• Freeze for later: This recipe freezes well. Assemble the tetrazzini in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
• Extra cheesy: For cheese lovers, feel free to add more mozzarella or Parmesan to the sauce or topping for an extra cheesy casserole.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and saves time!

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the tetrazzini and freeze it unbaked. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, or bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes! You can substitute the spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or even penne or rigatoni for a heartier dish.

Q: Can I add vegetables to Chicken Tetrazzini?
A: Yes, feel free to add vegetables like peas, spinach, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.

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Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is the perfect comfort food for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pasta, it’s an all-in-one meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone. Plus, the flexibility of this recipe allows you to make it your own with substitutions and add-ins. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or a busy weeknight, this Chicken Tetrazzini is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish you’ll want to make again and again. Happy cooking!

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