Chicken Tetrazzini
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Chicken Tetrazzini is one of those classic comfort dishes that effortlessly warms your heart and fills your belly. It’s a creamy, dreamy pasta casserole that combines tender chicken and savory sauces into a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe suits all. I first tried making Chicken Tetrazzini on a chilly evening and was amazed at how quickly it came together while delivering that delightful home-cooked goodness.
Reasons to try it
So, why should you make this mouthwatering dish? For starters, it’s a total crowd-pleaser! Children and adults alike can’t resist its cheesy allure. Plus, it’s budget-friendly; you can whip it up with pantry staples, leftover chicken, and a handful of other ingredients, saving you both time and money.
This casserole is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it for a cozy family dinner, impress guests on a special occasion, or even bring it to potlucks! And let’s be honest: who doesn’t love a dish that you can prepare in advance and just pop in the oven at the last minute?
"This Chicken Tetrazzini is my go-to for quick weeknight meals! It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and my kids gobble it up every single time." — A satisfied home cook
The cooking process explained
Making Chicken Tetrazzini is surprisingly straightforward! Start by cooking your spaghetti until it’s al dente. While that bubbles away, you’ll mix up a creamy base with your soups, broth, and creams. Once those flavors meld, you’ll toss in your chicken and pasta, layer it with cheeses, and bake it until bubbly and golden.
The entire process is as easy as it sounds, and you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying meal that just begs for seconds!
What you’ll need
Key ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (chopped or shredded)
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Feel free to switch out the cheeses or use a different type of pasta if you’re looking to personalize this dish!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti for about 12 minutes until al dente. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and rinsing the spaghetti with cold water to halt the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir until everything is nicely blended.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped chicken and mix thoroughly.
- Gently fold in the cooked spaghetti until it’s all coated in that creamy goodness. If it feels a bit dry, add in the reserved pasta water.
- Layer half of the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella and ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Pour the remaining chicken and pasta mixture over the cheese layer, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and cheddar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside garlic bread, green beans, or a crisp side salad for a hearty meal.
Best ways to enjoy it
For the ultimate serving experience, consider plating your Chicken Tetrazzini with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for that vibrant pop of color. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, which adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy dish. Fresh green beans or a light side salad can balance out the meal nicely. You might even want to serve it with a glass of your favorite white wine for a touch of sophistication.
How to store Chicken Tetrazzini
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine), storing your Chicken Tetrazzini is a breeze! Simply let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
Planning to save it for later? You can freeze the casserole! Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It should keep well for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake it covered in foil at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Helpful cooking tips
- Cook your pasta al dente: This ensures it doesn’t get mushy during baking.
- Make it ahead of time: You can prepare Chicken Tetrazzini a day in advance. Just cover it tightly in the fridge and bake when you’re ready.
- Add a crunch: For a delightful topping, consider adding panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter before baking.
Creative twists
Feel adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Mushroom lovers: Add sautéed mushrooms to the mix.
- Spice it up: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with your favorite veggies like broccoli or spinach.
- Cheese overload: Experiment with different cheeses; Gruyère or gouda can add unique flavors.
Your questions answered
How long does Chicken Tetrazzini take to prepare?
The total time is roughly 1 hour, including prep and bake time.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Just replace the chicken with vegetables like spinach and mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I know if it’s fully cooked?
Chicken Tetrazzini is cooked when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.
Now it’s your turn to enjoy this creamy, cheesy comfort food! Chicken Tetrazzini is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
