Welcome to a culinary journey where comfort meets flavor with this delectable Chicken Tetrazzini recipe. If you’re on the hunt for an eternal family favorite that shines on any dinner table, then this dish is a surefire winner. By perfectly blending tender chicken with creamy sauce and delicate pasta, you’ll have a recipe that’s not just crowd-pleasing but also incredibly easy to make.
When I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe, it was a rainy Sunday afternoon—a perfect day for comfort food. My grandmother shared this gem with me many years ago, and it quickly became a family staple. The heavenly aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is a memory I cherish, transporting me back to those cozy family gatherings filled with laughter and love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish offers a beautiful marriage of flavors and textures that’s incredibly easy to love. Here are a few reasons why you’ll be marking this as a go-to recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples, this recipe is both budget-friendly and easy to pull together.
- Comfort Food Classic: A creamy, cheesy delight that satisfies every craving and warms the soul.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, this recipe freezes exceptionally well.
- Family Approved: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a family dinner favorite.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Cooked pasta helps with a perfect texture in the completed dish.
Step 2
In a large skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until soft. This ensures all vegetables are tender and flavorful when combined with the chicken.
Step 3
Stir in cooked chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Cook until the chicken is well-coated in the seasoning and heated through. This enhances the dish’s savory notes.
Step 4
Prepare the sauce by combining cream, chicken broth, and a touch of flour for thickening. Whisk until smooth. Combine the sauce with the chicken mixture, allowing it to simmer briefly to meld flavors.
Step 5
Mix the chicken and sauce with the cooked pasta, then pour into a greased baking dish. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Serve hot and enjoy!
Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess, and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
If you’re catering to dietary preferences or looking to spice things up, consider these variations:
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free varieties.
- Vegetarian: Omit chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Lighter Version: Use light cream and reduce cheese for a healthier option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe, both for convenience and flavor. Simply shred the chicken and add it in Step 3 of the preparation process. It saves time and still delivers all the deliciousness you expect.
What side dishes go well with this meal? A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is also perfect for absorbing any extra sauce, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an excellent option for a make-ahead meal, especially for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pound chicken breast skinless and boneless, sliced
- 8 ounce spaghetti cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cup chicken broth low-sodium
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium heat until no longer pink.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, cooked chicken, chicken broth, heavy cream, half of the parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining parmesan on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
