Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe - Comforting Pasta Dish

Chicken Tetrazzini is a timeless American pasta dish named after the famous Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini. This creamy, cheesy, and savory dish combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and mushrooms in a rich sauce, making it a beloved comfort food for many. Whether you’re a home cook, a pasta lover, or a chicken enthusiast, this guide will walk you through creating this classic dish from scratch.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the steps, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need:

For the Chicken Tetrazzini:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 8 oz spaghetti (or any long pasta)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Prep Work

Prepare the Chicken

1. Cook the Chicken: You can use leftover cooked chicken or poach fresh chicken breasts in salted water until fully cooked. Once cooled, shred or cube the chicken.
2. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

1. Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Slice the mushrooms if not pre-sliced.

The Cooking Process

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and sauté until the mushrooms are tender and browned.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the heavy cream and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).

Step 3: Combine and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked spaghetti, and sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake

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

Alternative Ingredients

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for dairy-free cheese.
• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, or use additional vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers.

Serving and Storing

Serving

• Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
• Serve hot, straight from the oven, with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Storing

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Conclusion

There you have it—a rich and satisfying Chicken Tetrazzini that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!