Introduction

Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting and delicious pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, flavorful sauce and spaghetti. It’s an ideal meal for families and a great option for potlucks or dinner gatherings. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to use leftover chicken. With its cheesy goodness and savory flavors, Chicken Tetrazzini is sure to please everyone at the table.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 2 cups cooked, shredded or diced
Spaghetti: 8 ounces
Butter: 4 tablespoons
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Mushrooms: 8 ounces, sliced
All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup
Chicken broth: 2 cups
Milk: 1 cup
Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
Parsley: for garnish

Prep Time

Prep time for Chicken Tetrazzini is approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to gather and prepare all your ingredients before cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 30 minutes. In total, you can expect to invest about 45 minutes from start to finish, serving approximately 6 to 8 people. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, ensuring there are always leftovers to enjoy!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, in salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and let it rest before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and mushrooms, cooking until soft. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously until combined. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, followed by milk, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in seasonings and shredded chicken.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the chicken sauce mixture, stirring well to coat evenly.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.

Create the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta.

Bake the Dish

Bake the chicken tetrazzini in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.

Cool and Serve

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade chicken tetrazzini!

Notes

Chicken Options

You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.

Pasta Variations

Feel free to substitute spaghetti with other pasta types like fettuccine or penne.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Tips

This dish can be frozen before baking for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Vegetarian Alternative

Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.

Cook techniques

Boiling Pasta

Cooking pasta al dente is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your chicken tetrazzini. Boil the pasta in salted water until it’s slightly firm, then drain and set aside.

Sautéing Ingredients

Sautéing is a key technique for enhancing flavors. Cook onions, garlic, and mushrooms in butter until they are soft and fragrant before adding to the dish.

Food Combining

Combining ingredients before baking helps to create a harmonious flavor profile. Mix the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and pasta thoroughly with the sauce.

Baking

Baking the dish allows the flavors to meld and the top to get golden and bubbly. Bake the tetrazzini until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted.

Garnishing

Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or herbs to add a pop of color and freshness just before serving.

FAQ

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is an excellent way to save time and reduce food waste.

Is there a substitute for the cream?

Yes, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the tetrazzini ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

What type of pasta works best?

While traditional recipes often use spaghetti, you can use any pasta type like penne or rotini to suit your preference.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chicken Tetrazzini is a delicious and comforting dish that makes use of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh pasta. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal that can also be made ahead of time and baked when needed. This flavor-packed recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, giving you a warm and satisfying meal.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Tetrazzini

For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with a medley of seasonal vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers, while keeping the creamy sauce and pasta.

Turkey Tetrazzini

Use leftover turkey from your holiday meals to create a delicious turkey tetrazzini that will delight your family. The flavors pair well with the same creamy sauce.

Seafood Tetrazzini

Incorporate shrimp, crab, or scallops for a seafood version that adds a unique taste and texture to the traditional recipe while still maintaining its creamy essence.

Cheesy Tetrazzini

Boost the cheese factor by adding extra cheese varieties like mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for a richer flavor profile that cheese lovers will adore.

Pesto Tetrazzini

Mix in some basil pesto to the sauce for a fresh and vibrant flavor, elevating the dish with herby undertones that perfectly complement the chicken and pasta.

Gluten-Free Tetrazzini

Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options to accommodate those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this loving dish.