If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly marries creamy goodness with a splash of flavor, look no further than Chicken Tetrazzini. This delightful pasta casserole is a family favorite, packed with tender chicken, mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce—making it an ideal choice for a comforting weeknight dinner. Did you know that Chicken Tetrazzini was named after the famed Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini? This dish is not only named after a talented artist but also reflects the elegance and comfort of Italian cuisine.
What makes Chicken Tetrazzini so special is its versatility; you can whip it up quickly and customize it to suit your family’s tastes. It’s great for using up leftover chicken, and it’s a dish that everyone, from picky eaters to adventurous foodies, will love. In just 30 minutes, you can be serving this hearty meal, which is not only budget-friendly but also a crowd-pleaser. If you’re a fan of savory casseroles like our cheesy Baked Ziti, you’ll find Chicken Tetrazzini to be a worthy addition to your culinary repertoire. So, why not gather your ingredients and create this delicious dish today?
What is Chicken Tetrazzini?
Ah, Chicken Tetrazzini! Sounds fancy, right? But let’s break it down a little. It’s essentially a creamy pasta dish that stars chicken and mushrooms, all baked to golden perfection. But why the name “Tetrazzini”? While some might think it was named after a well-known chef or a family recipe passed down through generations, it’s actually a tribute to the Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini! Talk about an inspiring origin! The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish certainly knows how to impress! So, are you ready to dive into this luscious, creamy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tetrazzini
There are so many reasons to love Chicken Tetrazzini! First and foremost, the highlight of this dish is its creamy, rich sauce that envelopes the tender chicken and pasta—creating an indulgent experience with each bite. On top of that, making this dish at home is a fantastic way to save money while crafting a meal that feels gourmet. You can easily meal prep and serve it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
What makes Chicken Tetrazzini even more special are the mix-ins: sautéed mushrooms for an earthy note, perhaps some spinach for added nutrients, and you can top it off with a sprinkle of cheese that melts beautifully under a golden crust. If you enjoy meals that are packed with flavor and comfort, then this dish is for you! And while you’re here, don’t miss out on exploring our other comforting recipes like the creamy Chicken Alfredo for more family favorites.
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini
Quick Overview
Making Chicken Tetrazzini is a breeze! With a prep time of only about 15 minutes, this dish comes together in just about 30 minutes. It’s simple and full of flavor, making it a satisfying choice for any day. Whether you’re feeling a bit tired after a long day or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to hit the spot!
Key Ingredients for Chicken Tetrazzini
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti: Cooked according to package instructions and drained.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Shredded or cubed.
- 8 oz mushrooms: Sliced.
- 1/4 cup butter: For sautéing.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Creates a rich flavor base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This adds the creamy texture we love.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A lovely touch of nutty flavor.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: For a hint of aromatic essence.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Just enough to season.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: For topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, cook the linguine according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Mushrooms: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until tender (about 4–5 minutes).
- Make Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and cream, allowing it to thicken while stirring.
- Add Chicken and Season: Once thickened, stir in the cooked chicken, garlic powder, black pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle breadcrumbs and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top, then bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Top Tips for Perfecting Chicken Tetrazzini
- Ingredient Substitution: You can easily swap the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based option like tofu or chickpeas if you prefer a different protein.
- Prep Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance; just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Avoiding Common Mistakes: Be careful not to overcook the pasta beforehand, as it will continue to cook in the oven!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your Chicken Tetrazzini leftovers, make sure it’s completely cooled, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You may want to cover it with foil to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning!
Ready to grace your dining table with this delectable Chicken Tetrazzini? It’s a dish filled with comforting flavors that your family will surely adore! Dive into deliciousness today and enjoy every creamy bite!
Chicken Tetrazzini
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti Cooked according to package instructions and drained.
- 2 cups cooked chicken Shredded or cubed.
- 8 oz mushrooms Sliced.
- 1/4 cup butter For sautéing.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour To thicken the sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth Creates a rich flavor base.
- 1 cup heavy cream This adds the creamy texture we love.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese A lovely touch of nutty flavor.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder For a hint of aromatic essence.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper Just enough to season.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs For topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, cook the linguine according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until tender (about 4–5 minutes).
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and cream, allowing it to thicken while stirring.
- Once thickened, stir in the cooked chicken, garlic powder, black pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top, then bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
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