Do you want a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to make? Look no further than this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe! Packed with tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it brings warmth to any table. I’ll guide you through each step, from cooking the pasta to perfecting the sauce. Get ready to impress your family with this delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit! Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic: This creamy chicken tetrazzini is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce that warms the soul.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or using leftover turkey or ham instead of chicken, making it a great recipe to adapt.
- Great for Leftovers: This tetrazzini tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep or to enjoy as leftovers for lunch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauces and Cheeses
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
This recipe for creamy chicken tetrazzini uses simple, tasty ingredients. The main stars are the pasta and chicken. You can use linguine or spaghetti, whichever you prefer. The cooked chicken adds protein and is easy to shred.
Next, we have our vegetables and seasonings. The mushrooms give a nice earthy flavor, while peas add sweetness. Onions and garlic bring a lovely aroma. Thyme and garlic powder enhance the taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they bring all the flavors together.
For the creamy sauce, we use butter and flour to make a roux. This thickens our sauce perfectly. Chicken broth adds depth, while heavy cream makes it rich. Finally, the cheeses are what make this dish so special. Parmesan gives a salty kick, and mozzarella adds gooeyness. If you want, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
With these ingredients, you will create a dish that is both hearty and comforting. Now, let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil salted water in a large pot.
- Add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 small diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 cup of sliced mushrooms.
- Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Making the Creamy Sauce
- Stir in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with the cooked vegetables.
- Gradually add 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking.
- Whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combining the Tetrazzini
- Add 2 cups of shredded chicken and 1 cup of frozen peas to the skillet.
- Stir well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Baking the Tetrazzini
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with 1 cup of grated Parmesan and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella.
Final Touches Before Serving
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Sauce
How to prevent lumps in the sauce?
To prevent lumps, stir the flour into the sautéed vegetables first. This helps it blend well. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens.
Adjusting seasoning to taste
Taste the sauce as you cook. Adjust the salt and pepper based on your preference. If it needs more flavor, add extra thyme or garlic powder. Always remember, you can add but not take away!
Pasta Cooking Tips
Best practices for al dente pasta
Cook your pasta in boiling salted water. Follow the package instructions but check it one minute early. Al dente means it should be firm but not hard. Drain it right away to stop the cooking.
Alternatives for gluten-free options
For a gluten-free dish, use gluten-free pasta. Cook it just like regular pasta. You can also try zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. They add a fresh taste too!
Cheese Selection
Recommended cheese varieties for richer flavor
Use a mix of cheeses for depth. Parmesan adds a nutty taste, while mozzarella gives creaminess. You might also try gouda or cheddar for a twist.
How to achieve a crispy topping
To get a crispy topping, sprinkle extra cheese before baking. You can also add breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter. Bake until golden brown for that perfect crunch!
Pro Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture. It will continue to cook in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s convenient and adds great flavor to the dish.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add or swap vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a deliciously cheesy topping. Be generous for a golden, bubbly finish!
Variations
Protein Substitutes
You can switch up the protein in your tetrazzini. Using rotisserie chicken saves time. It’s already cooked and adds great flavor. Just shred it and mix it in. Homemade chicken works too, but takes longer.
For a vegetarian twist, use mushrooms or tofu. Sauté the mushrooms until they are nicely browned. If you use tofu, press it first to remove water. Then, cut it into cubes and sauté until golden. Both options give great taste and texture.
Vegetables Add-ins
Adding seasonal veggies can boost the flavor. Think about using asparagus in spring or zucchini in summer. They add color and nutrients. You can also toss in fresh spinach or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for a tasty mix.
Flavor Enhancements
To make your dish pop, add spices or herbs. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add warmth. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish.
Experiment with cheese too. Try gouda for a smoky flavor or cheddar for sharpness. Mixing different cheeses can make your tetrazzini unique and delicious.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
Store your leftover creamy chicken tetrazzini in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. This dish will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always check for any off smells before eating.
Freezing Guidelines
To freeze tetrazzini, use a freezer-safe container. Let it cool completely before sealing. It keeps well for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze in individual portions.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven makes it taste better.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your creamy chicken tetrazzini with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A side of steamed veggies also works well.
To reheat, cover with foil to keep it moist. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the cover for a crispy top. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can! Here are some great options:
- Penne: This shape holds sauce well.
- Fusilli: Its twists capture the creamy sauce nicely.
- Gluten-free pasta: Perfect for those with gluten issues.
- Egg noodles: They add a nice texture.
Feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta. Each type changes the dish a bit, but they all work!
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
Making this dish ahead is simple. Just follow these steps:
1. Prepare the pasta and sauce as directed.
2. Combine all ingredients in your baking dish.
3. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
4. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
When ready, just bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want to swap heavy cream, here are some options:
- Coconut milk: For a dairy-free twist, it adds a nice flavor.
- Half-and-half: A lighter choice that still adds creaminess.
- Greek yogurt: This gives a nice tang and is lower in fat.
Adjust the amount based on how creamy you want your dish.
How long does leftover tetrazzini last?
Leftover tetrazzini can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. To store it:
- Place it in an airtight container.
- Keep it cool in the fridge.
If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw it overnight before reheating.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Here are some tips to make it more appealing:
- Use fun pasta shapes like stars or shells.
- Cut the chicken into smaller bites for easy eating.
- Add a bit more cheese on top to make it extra cheesy.
Kids usually love creamy dishes, and this one is no exception!
This dish combines tasty pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce. You learned about key ingredients, cooking steps, and variations. The tips can help you avoid common mistakes and make it your own. Enjoying this dish is easy, whether for a family meal or a friendly gathering. Feel free to try different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. With simple storage tips, you can enjoy leftovers for days. So get cooking and savor every bit
Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- optional fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the mushrooms are browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir to combine. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, approximately 3-5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken, frozen peas, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat all ingredients in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon the tetrazzini mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
