Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting and creamy pasta dish that beautifully combines tender chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce. It’s baked to perfection, resulting in a golden, bubbly top that is sure to delight anyone at the dinner table. This dish not only fills the stomach but warms the heart, making it a favorite for family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe for its incredible flavor and straightforward preparation. The harmonious blend of sautéed mushrooms, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta elevates this dish to comfort food status. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, making it a practical choice for busy cooks. Plus, with its blend of protein and carbohydrates, it fits seamlessly into a balanced diet while being rich enough to please even the pickiest eaters.
Tips and Tricks
To make your Chicken Tetrazzini even more delicious, try these handy tips:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation, shred some store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch.
- Add Extra Flavor: Enhance your sauce by adding a splash of white wine, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for depth.
- Pasta Choice: While traditional Tetrazzini uses spaghetti, feel free to swap in linguine or penne for a different texture.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate frozen peas or spinach for added nutrition and color. They blend in seamlessly and don’t require any extra cooking time.
Make Ahead Tips
For busy weeknights or meal prepping, you can easily prepare components of Chicken Tetrazzini in advance:
- Cooked Chicken: Shred and store leftover chicken in the fridge for up to three days.
- Sauce: Make the creamy sauce a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. Just reheat before combining with pasta and chicken.
- Assemble and Refrigerate: You can assemble the entire dish and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Recipe Variations
Here are some variations to keep your Chicken Tetrazzini exciting:
- Vegetarian Tetrazzini: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of seasonal vegetables.
- Seafood Tetrazzini: Substitute chicken with shrimp or crab for a delightful seafood twist.
- Cheesy Tetrazzini: Stir in your favorite cheese like cheddar or Gruyère for an extra cheesy experience.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy version.
How to Serve
Serve your Chicken Tetrazzini hot from the oven, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio complements the creaminess of the dish beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a classic gin and tonic works well. As for side dishes, consider serving garlic bread or sautéed green beans to round out the meal. For dessert, a light fruit sorbet or a slice of cheesecake would be a perfect finish.
How to Store
To store leftovers, let the Chicken Tetrazzini cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you’d like to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers and enjoy it within three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A large skillet for making the sauce
- A baking dish (9×13 inch works great)
- A whisk for mixing the sauce
- An oven to bake the dish
Alternatives: If you don’t have a baking dish, you can use any oven-safe casserole dish.
Dietary Adaptations
To make Chicken Tetrazzini vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use a plant-based cream and cheese. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk in place of cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Ensure all other ingredients are free from nuts and allergens as required.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, consider adding fresh asparagus and peas for a light touch. Summer is perfect for incorporating fresh tomatoes and basil. In the fall, roasted butternut squash can lend a lovely sweetness, while winter could call for hearty greens like kale or Swiss chard.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can dice raw chicken and cook it in the skillet before adding it to the sauce.
What can I substitute for the cream?
You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk, but be aware this may change the texture slightly.
How long does it take to bake?
Typically, Chicken Tetrazzini should bake for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden.
How To Make Chicken Tetrazzini
Chicken Tetrazzini
Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting and creamy pasta dish that beautifully combines tender chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and cream until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Add the shredded chicken and peas, mixing well.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 469Total Fat 31gSaturated Fat 17gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 115mgSodium 470mgCarbohydrates 28gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 20g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Chicken Tetrazzini is a delightful culinary adventure that results in a dish everyone will love. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and comforting feel, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!