If you’re craving a comforting yet effortless dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and tender spaghetti, it’s a classic dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that tastes anything but simple. Whether it’s a family weeknight feast or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe promises a satisfying and delicious experience you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create a dish that bursts with creamy, cheesy goodness and savory flavor. Each element plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture and depth of taste that defines this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Shredded for tenderness and protein-packed flavor that anchors the dish.
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked: The pasta base that carries the creamy sauce and chicken in every bite.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious richness and a velvety texture.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Enhances the savory flavor while keeping the sauce from being too thick.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, stretchy cheesiness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that balances the cream.
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced: Earthy tones and a slight bite to complement the soft textures.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, aromatic warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors into harmony.
How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to ensure your cheesy masterpiece won’t stick and will come out easily once baked. This simple prep step sets the stage for an effortless, enjoyable baking experience.
Step 2: Mix All the Ingredients Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, heavy cream, chicken broth, mozzarella, Parmesan, sliced mushrooms, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until the ingredients meld into a creamy and cohesive mixture. This is where all the delicious flavors begin to marry, and the magic of your Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe comes alive.
Step 3: Transfer to the Baking Dish and Top with Cheese
Pour the rich mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some additional shredded mozzarella on top. This layer will melt into a bubbly, golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll want to watch as the top turns a beautiful golden brown with bubbling cheese peeking through. That golden crust is the hallmark of this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe and promises the perfect balance between creamy and crispy.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. This rest time helps everything set nicely and makes serving easier. Then, dig in and enjoy the comforting layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe a true favorite.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped basil adds a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor that perfectly contrasts the creamy casserole. For an added crunch, toasted bread crumbs on top can lend a wonderful textural dimension.
Side Dishes
Complement this hearty dish with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus also make vibrant, healthy sides that complete the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. This makes it special for dinner parties or cozy family meals where everyone can enjoy their own cheesy portion, fresh out of the oven.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Easy Chicken Tetrazzini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish holds up wonderfully and even tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to mingle.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the casserole before baking in a freezer-safe dish wrapped tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months, making it perfect for busy nights when you need a comforting meal in a pinch.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions until hot, stirring halfway to ensure even heating without drying out the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic for this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe, you can switch it up with linguine, fettuccine, or even penne to suit your preference or pantry stock.
Is this recipe suitable for making ahead before a party?
Yes, this dish is fantastic for making ahead. Assemble it the day before, keep it refrigerated, and bake just before serving to save time and stress on the day of your event.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
You can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce might be less rich and creamy. To maintain thickness, you might need a small amount of flour or cornstarch to help it set.
What can I add to make the dish more flavorful?
Consider adding sautéed onions, fresh garlic, or herbs like thyme and rosemary for added depth. A dash of white wine in the sauce can also elevate the flavor beautifully.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly after baking?
It’s best to freeze your Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe before baking to maintain its texture and flavor. Freezing it after baking can make the sauce watery and the pasta mushy upon reheating.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about an Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe that strikes the perfect balance between simple and scrumptious. It’s a warm, cheesy crowd-pleaser that feels like home on a plate. Give it a try, and you might just find your new go-to comfort food that never fails to impress.
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Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring tender shredded chicken, spaghetti, mushrooms, and a delectable blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it combines rich flavors with simple preparation in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare it for the casserole mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked spaghetti, heavy cream, chicken broth, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sliced mushrooms, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed.
- Assemble Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese over the surface.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling, indicating it’s heated through and perfectly cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set before serving. This resting time helps the dish firm up slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it may be less rich.
- You can add sautéed onions or green peas for extra flavor and texture.
- Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly during baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
