Okay, friends, gather ’round! I’m about to share a recipe that’s been in my family for generations. What is my go-to comfort food? Think of it as the sophisticated cousin of mac and cheese, but instead of cheddar, we’re talking about ham. What are some of the best mushrooms to serve with chicken? What is the best chicken tetrazzini recipe?
What is chicken tetrazzini?
What exactly is chicken tetrazzini? Imagine al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich, velvety sauce made with mushrooms, cream, and Parmesan. Cheese, studded with pieces of perfectly cooked chicken. The whole thing is then baked until golden brown. The name comes from the Italian opera singer, Luisa Tetrazzini, who was apparently a big fan of the singer. What are some of your Is this one of those dishes that sounds fancy but is actually super simple to throw together? Think of it as your secret weapon for weeknight dinners.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce coats every strand of spaghetti, and the mushrooms add a savory depth that’s just irresistible.
What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly adaptable it is. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken to make it even easier, or swap out the mushrooms for other veggies you have on hand. It’s also surprisingly cost-effective. A little chicken goes a long way, and the other ingredients are pantry staples for most of us. Plus, it’s the kind of dish that everyone, from picky kids to sophisticated adults, can agree on. And believe me, finding *that* recipe is like striking gold.
It’s honestly easier than making lasagna! And if you are a huge lasagna fan like my family, this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is a great way to mix things up without spending all day in the kitchen. But seriously though – flavor, simplicity, budget-friendly, and kid-approved? What’s not to love?
How do I make chicken tetrazzini?
Quick Overview
Making this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is simpler than you think! Basically, you cook your spaghetti, whip up a creamy mushroom sauce, toss in the chicken, and bake it all together until golden and bubbly. The beauty of this recipe is that you can use leftover cooked chicken, making it a breeze on busy weeknights. It’s really just a matter of layering flavors and textures. The secret is not overcooking the pasta, and letting that sauce thicken up just right! This method gives you maximum flavor, in minimum time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Opt for organic if possible! What are some ways to use leftover chicken?
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken to perfection.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy! Season generously.
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted, because we’ll be adding salt later.
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced: Adds an earthy, flavorful flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Yellow or white will do.
- What is the best way to mince 3 cloves of garlic in a day?
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
- How much chicken broth should I use?
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that signature creamy texture! I have used half-and-half in a pinch.
- What is the best way to serve Parmesan cheese?
- 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional): Adds a touch of sophistication. I actually prefer it without!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Again season generously!
- What is nutmeg?
For the Pasta:
- Can you use any other pasta shape?
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water: This helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that golden-brown crust!
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I always use a glass one, but metal will work too. How do I make a tetrazzini stick? I usually do this while the oven is preheating so it’s ready to go! When the sauce and pasta are ready, the dish is ready to go.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season Chicken Breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. How long should you cook chicken? Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. Don’t overcrowd the pan or the chicken will steam instead of sear! This step is important for locking in moisture, so make sure you get a nice sear.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. How do you drain pasta water? I always undercook my pasta because it continues to cook in the oven with the sauce. Is this true? Who likes mushy tetra
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the onion and cook for another minute until fragrant. The mushrooms should be tender and the onions translucent. What is the magic of flavor building from the ground up?
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for a creamy, not watery, sauce. Keep stirring to prevent lumps!
Step 6: Add the Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sherry (if using), nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I always add a pinch of groundnutmeg to my soup. It just brings out the other flavors so nicely.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Add the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and reserved pasta water to the sauce. Cook for 5 minutes. Toss to coat everything evenly. The pasta water helps the sauce cling to the pasta, creating a luscious texture. Make sure everything is nicely combined!
Step 8: Bake
What is the best Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over the top of a baking dish? Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. What should I do if my cheese is melted and slightly browned?
Step 9: Serve
Let the Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents it from being too runny. Serve hot, and enjoy! What is the best way to serve leftovers the next day?
What should I serve it with?
What’s a good chicken tetrazzini recipe? What are some interesting side dishes?For a light lunch:What is a salad with lemon vinaigrette? It adds a refreshing contrast that cuts through the creaminess. I usually toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra crunch.For a Fancy Dinner: Steamed asparagus or Roasted Broccoli are elegant and healthy options. They add a pop of color to the plate and provide some much-needed vitamins. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, would also be a lovely addition.
For a Cozy Night In: Crusty Garlic Bread is always a winner. It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce! And maybe a glass of red wine, just because. My family loves dipping the garlic bread into the tetrazzini – it’s the ultimate comfort food combo!
I always serve this with a simple garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing. Something that will cut through the richness and brightness from the acidity of the dressing is just what the dish needs!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Tetrazzini
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe even more amazing.
Chicken Cooking Perfection: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy. If using leftover rotisserie chicken, add it at the very end to prevent it from drying out. One time, I overcooked my chicken and it was like eating rubber. Lesson learned!
Sauce Consistency: Don’t rush the sauce-making process. Allow the sauce to thicken properly before adding the cream and cheese. If the sauce is too thin, it will be watery in the final dish. I always let it simmer for a few extra minutes to achieve the perfect consistency.
Pasta Perfection: As with the chicken you don’t want to overcook the pasta either! I always slightly undercook my pasta because it continues to cook in the oven with the sauce. Nobody likes mushy tetrazzini!
Mushroom Magic: Experiment with different types of mushrooms. Shiitake or oyster mushrooms would add a unique flavor. I once used a mix of wild mushrooms and it was absolutely divine! I like to sauté the mushrooms really well to get a nice golden-brown color on them. They get so much more flavor that way.
Sherry Substitute: If you don’t have sherry, you can substitute it with dry white wine or chicken broth. The sherry adds a certain depth of flavor, but it’s not essential. I’ve made it without sherry many times and it’s still delicious.
Parmesan Power: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality. The pre-shredded stuff just doesn’t melt as well and doesn’t have the same flavor. Trust me on this one!
Baking Brilliance: Keep an eye on the tetrazzini while it’s baking. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil. I always set a timer so I don’t forget! One time, I got distracted and the topping was almost burnt to a crisp. Not fun!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping or making ahead of time.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover tetrazzini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing. I usually portion it out into individual containers for easy lunches.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the tetrazzini. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Methods: To reheat, you can microwave it for a few minutes, or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If microwaving, add a splash of milk or broth to prevent it from drying out. When reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to prevent the topping from burning.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to freeze the tetrazzini, it’s best to add the topping after thawing and before reheating. This will ensure that the topping is nice and crispy. I learned this the hard way – the topping gets soggy when frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug, a comforting memory, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for a special occasion. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other pasta bakes for even more delicious dinner ideas! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Cooked chicken breast Shredded or diced
- 1 cup Butter
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups Cooked egg noodles
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and cooked chicken. Add cooked egg noodles and mix well.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
