Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

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Chicken Tetrazzini is a beloved comfort food that combines creamy pasta with tender chicken in a hearty baked dish. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a delicious meal perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. With creamy mushroom sauce and a cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz. Linguine pasta
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 20 oz. cream of mushroom soup*
  • 2 cups sour cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
  • 4 cups chicken, cooked and shredded
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions:

  1. Cook the Linguine Pasta
    • Boil linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat and Prepare
    • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray.
  3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
    • In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  4. Combine Ingredients
    • Stir in freshly chopped parsley, cooked and shredded chicken, and drained linguine pasta until well combined and evenly coated.
  5. Assemble the Dish
    • Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
  6. Add Cheese
    • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta mixture.
  7. Bake
    • Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
  8. Garnish and Serve
    • Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting Chicken Tetrazzini with your loved ones!

Tips for Success

  • Cooking the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
  • Creamy Sauce Consistency: Whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Cheese Melting: Covering the dish with foil during the initial bake helps to melt the cheese evenly without overbrowning.
  • Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish, enhancing its presentation.

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serving Suggestions: Serve Chicken Tetrazzini hot straight from the oven for optimal flavor and texture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
  2. Portion Control: Use a sharp knife to portion out servings directly from the casserole dish. Ensure each serving has a generous amount of creamy sauce and cheese topping.
  3. Accompaniments: Pair Chicken Tetrazzini with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal with additional flavors and textures.
  4. Leftovers Storage: Store any leftover Chicken Tetrazzini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
  5. Freezing Instructions: Chicken Tetrazzini freezes well. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  6. Reheating Tips: Reheat frozen or refrigerated Chicken Tetrazzini in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
  7. Refreshing Leftovers: For a quick refresh of leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore moisture and creamy consistency.
  8. Meal Prep: Prepare Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time for busy days or special occasions. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  9. Garnishing: Before serving leftovers, sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan cheese and parsley to enhance flavors and presentation.
  10. Variation Ideas: Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or fettuccine, and add vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms to customize the dish to your taste preferences.

These serving and storage tips ensure you can enjoy Chicken Tetrazzini at its best, whether freshly baked or reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.

Variations :

  1. Mushroom Lover’s Delight: Enhance the mushroom flavor by adding a variety of mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms. Sauté them with the onions and garlic before mixing into the creamy sauce.
  2. Spinach and Artichoke Twist: Incorporate chopped spinach and canned artichoke hearts into the dish for added texture and a burst of flavor. Mix them in with the pasta and chicken before baking.
  3. Cheesy Broccoli Addition: Steam fresh broccoli florets until tender-crisp, then chop and mix them into the creamy sauce along with the pasta and chicken. Top with an extra layer of shredded cheddar cheese before baking for a cheesy broccoli twist.
  4. Italian-Inspired Variation: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. Add Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to give it an Italian twist.
  5. Spicy Cajun Kick: For a spicy twist, season the chicken with Cajun seasoning before cooking and add sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Mix in a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies into the creamy sauce and top with shredded pepper jack cheese.
  6. Turkey Tetrazzini: Substitute shredded cooked turkey or leftover Thanksgiving turkey for the chicken to change up the protein. The flavors meld beautifully with the creamy sauce and pasta.
  7. Seafood Sensation: Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp or a combination of shrimp and crab meat for a seafood version. Add Old Bay seasoning and a squeeze of lemon juice to the creamy sauce for a delightful coastal twist.
  8. Pesto Perfection: Stir in a few tablespoons of basil pesto into the creamy sauce mixture for a vibrant pesto chicken tetrazzini. Top with pine nuts and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking for added flavor.
  9. Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add a medley of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Toss them with the pasta and coat with the creamy sauce before baking.
  10. Buffalo Chicken Twist: Toss shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles before mixing into the pasta and creamy sauce. Top with extra blue cheese crumbles and chopped celery for a buffalo chicken-inspired dish.

These variations offer creative ways to customize Chicken Tetrazzini to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, ensuring each rendition remains comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use different types of pasta for Chicken Tetrazzini? Yes, you can use different types of pasta such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. Adjust cooking times according to the package instructions for al dente texture.
  2. Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time? Yes, Chicken Tetrazzini is a great make-ahead dish. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it for longer storage.
  3. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy? Cook the pasta just until al dente before combining it with the sauce and baking. This ensures the pasta retains its texture even after baking.
  4. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for Chicken Tetrazzini? Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe. Simply shred the chicken and incorporate it into the dish as directed.
  5. What can I serve with Chicken Tetrazzini? It pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  6. How should I store leftovers of Chicken Tetrazzini? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
  7. Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini? Yes, Chicken Tetrazzini freezes well. Wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  8. What’s the best way to reheat Chicken Tetrazzini? Reheat thawed or refrigerated Chicken Tetrazzini in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
  9. Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the cream of mushroom soup and other ingredients are gluten-free. Check all labels carefully.
  10. How can I make Chicken Tetrazzini creamier? Increase the amount of sour cream or add extra shredded cheese to the sauce mixture before baking for a richer and creamier texture.

These FAQs provide helpful tips and solutions to common queries about preparing, storing, and customizing Chicken Tetrazzini, ensuring a successful and delicious dining experience every time.

Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe promises to satisfy with its creamy texture and comforting flavors. Easy to prepare and deliciously cheesy, it’s a timeless dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the warmth and goodness of homemade comfort food with this delightful recipe!