Introduction

Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic comfort food that combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce and pasta, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a delicious homemade meal. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, Chicken Tetrazzini is sure to become a family favorite.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Cooked chicken: 3 cups, shredded
– Spaghetti: 8 ounces
– Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces)
– Chicken broth: 1 cup
– Milk: 1 cup
– Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated
– Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Onion: 1 small, diced
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Salt: 1 teaspoon
– Pepper: ½ teaspoon
– Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped (for garnish)

Prep Time

The preparation time for Chicken Tetrazzini is approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to gather your ingredients and prepare the dish for cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is around 30 minutes, while the total time from start to finish is about 45 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of Chicken Tetrazzini with loved ones!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by cooking the spaghetti in a large pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced chicken breasts and cook until no longer pink, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add more butter if needed, then sauté onions and garlic until they are soft. Stir in flour and cook for about a minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cooking until the sauce thickens. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg for flavor.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, and the sauce. Stir in peas and half of the cheese, mixing well until everything is well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken tetrazzini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instructions

This dish can be frozen before baking. After assembling, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow baking instructions.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken tetrazzini pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Variations

You can substitute chicken with turkey or even a variety of vegetables for a vegetarian version. Adding mushrooms or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrients.

Cook techniques

Cooking the Pasta

To achieve the perfect texture for your chicken tetrazzini, cook the pasta al dente. This means boiling it until it’s firm to the bite so it retains its shape and texture during baking.

Making the Sauce

Create a creamy sauce by combining butter, flour, and chicken broth. This roux-based sauce will give your tetrazzini a rich flavor and smooth consistency.

Shredding the Chicken

Use cooked chicken, either roasted or rotisserie, and shred it into bite-sized pieces. This adds tenderness and allows the chicken to seamlessly blend with the pasta and sauce.

Baking the Tetrazzini

Bake the assembled dish until golden and bubbly. This step is crucial for melding the flavors together and creating a deliciously crispy topping when you add breadcrumbs or cheese.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while traditional tetrazzini often uses spaghetti, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta.

What can I substitute for chicken?

For a vegetarian version, use mushrooms or a mix of vegetables. Alternatively, you can use turkey or seafood for a different protein option.

Can I make tetrazzini ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time, store it covered in the refrigerator, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover chicken tetrazzini should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Can I freeze chicken tetrazzini?

Yes, chicken tetrazzini can be frozen. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months.

Conclusion

The Chicken Tetrazzini is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta in a satisfying combination. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, as it can be easily made ahead of time and reheated. This recipe showcases the versatility of chicken and allows for various modifications to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Tetrazzini

Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.

Seafood Tetrazzini

Incorporate shrimp or crab meat instead of chicken for a seafood twist that adds a unique flavor to the dish.

Spicy Chicken Tetrazzini

Add some heat by including diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a spicy kick.

Cheesy Tetrazzini

Increase the amount of cheese, like adding mozzarella or cheddar on top before baking, to create a gooey, cheesy layer.

Gluten-Free Tetrazzini

Use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

One-Pot Tetrazzini

For easy cleanup, adapt the recipe to be made in a single pot, cooking the pasta directly in the sauce for added flavor.