Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

Craving a rich and comforting pasta dish that's easy to make? Chicken Tetrazzini is the perfect meal for you! This classic American casserole features tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked together with a cheesy golden crust. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s great for family dinners, potlucks, or even leftovers. With this easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time.

Read on for the full recipe, ingredient variations, and pro tips to make the perfect Chicken Tetrazzini every time!

What Is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting casserole made with chicken, pasta (typically spaghetti or fettuccine), a creamy white sauce, and a topping of cheese or breadcrumbs. Named after the famous Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, this dish has become a beloved American classic. The creamy sauce, made with butter, cream, and sometimes white wine, coats the chicken and pasta, making each bite luscious and full of flavor.

Ingredients List for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

To make this delicious Chicken Tetrazzini, you'll need simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your kitchen:

• Cooked Chicken – 3 cups, shredded or cubed. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver.
• Spaghetti or Fettuccine – 12 ounces, cooked al dente.
• Butter – 4 tablespoons, divided.
• Mushrooms – 8 ounces, sliced.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced.
• All-Purpose Flour – ¼ cup, for thickening the sauce.
• Chicken Broth – 2 cups, for the base of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream – 1 cup, to make the sauce rich and creamy.
• White Wine – ½ cup (optional), for added depth of flavor.
• Cream Cheese – 4 ounces, softened, to make the sauce extra creamy.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, for the sauce and topping.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – ½ cup, for a cheesy, melty topping.
• Salt and Black Pepper – To taste.
• Parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

Chicken Tetrazzini is versatile, and you can easily adapt it to your preferences or use what you have on hand. Here are some great substitutions and variations:

• Protein Alternatives: Use turkey, ham, or even seafood like shrimp or crab instead of chicken.
• No Mushrooms?: If you're not a fan of mushrooms, simply omit them or replace them with another vegetable like spinach or peas.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream to cut down on calories.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute gluten-free flour for thickening the sauce.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to swap in Gruyère, cheddar, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the steps for making this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini, so you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Cook the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine 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 sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft and golden, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. 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 form a roux (this helps thicken the sauce). Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, white wine (if using), and softened cream cheese. Cook until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese.
6. 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 well coated.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese and the shredded mozzarella.
8. Bake: Bake the Chicken Tetrazzini in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

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

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Cook the mushrooms and garlic in butter for added flavor.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Make the roux, then stir in chicken broth, cream, and cream cheese for a smooth sauce.
4. Combine and Bake: Mix the sauce with pasta, chicken, and mushrooms, then bake until bubbly and golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Lumpy Sauce: Be sure to whisk the flour and broth mixture well to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Dry Casserole: Don’t skimp on the sauce! It’s what keeps the dish moist and creamy, so make sure there’s plenty to coat the pasta and chicken.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Tetrazzini is a hearty meal on its own, but you can pair it with sides for a well-rounded dinner. Here are some great ideas:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus make excellent side dishes.

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

Chicken Tetrazzini is best served fresh from the oven, with the cheese on top still bubbly and golden. You can either serve it family-style directly from the baking dish or plate individual servings. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Tetrazzini

For an elegant presentation, serve Chicken Tetrazzini in small ramekins or individual gratin dishes for portioned servings. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and serve with a wedge of lemon on the side for a touch of brightness.

Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, though you may need to add a few extra minutes of baking time.
• Freeze for Later: Chicken Tetrazzini freezes well. Just assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cooked chicken or turkey. Rotisserie chicken works great for saving time, but you can also use poached or baked chicken breast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish without cream cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with more heavy cream, sour cream, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or broccoli make great additions to Chicken Tetrazzini. Just toss them in with the pasta and sauce before baking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover Chicken Tetrazzini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer. Just make sure to cook it al dente before adding it to the casserole.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is a comforting classic that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you're in the mood for a rich and creamy pasta dish. With its combination of tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and golden cheesy topping, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a taste of comfort food at its finest!

Print