If you’re searching for a comforting dish that encompasses rich flavors and delightful textures, look no further than The Best Easy Chicken Tetrazzini. This creamy pasta bake combines tender chicken, nutty mushrooms, and comforting spaghetti in a luscious sauce that hugs each strand, creating a dish that’s perfect for cozy family gatherings. Interestingly, chicken tetrazzini has origins dating back to the early 1900s and is named after a famous Italian opera singer, Luisa Tetrazzini. Doesn’t that add a dash of charm? It’s no surprise that this dish has become a favorite, especially for those busy weeknights when you want a satisfying dinner without the fuss. In fact, if you’ve enjoyed my popular One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Pasta before, you’ll find yourself enamored with this beloved classic that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!
What is The Best Easy Chicken Tetrazzini?
When pondering the name Chicken Tetrazzini, ever wonder how it came to be? Was it invented in a magic kitchen, or was there a hungry owl involved? Jokes aside, this delicious dish is a harmonious blend of chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce. They say that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and let me tell you, this casserole will win over even the pickiest eaters! It’s hearty enough to make anyone feel at home but simple enough to whip up with just a few ingredients. So why not give it a go? Gather your loved ones and bring everyone around the dinner table for this delightful dish.
Why You’ll Love This The Best Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
There are so many reasons to adore The Best Easy Chicken Tetrazzini! First off, it’s a standout main dish that takes center stage during family meals. The creamy richness of the sauce paired with juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta creates a mouthwatering experience that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant’s offerings. Plus, cooking at home is a fantastic way to save costs—let’s be real, dining out can quickly become an expensive venture! With this recipe, you’re able to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at a fraction of the price. And let’s not forget about the toppings! Whether it’s a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs or a light dusting of parmesan, it adds a final touch of pizzazz, making each bite unforgettable. So why wait? Dive into this delicious dish today!
How to Make The Best Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
Quick Overview
Making The Best Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a breeze! This creamy indulgence promises a comforting meal that is just as satisfying to eat as it is to prepare. With minimal prep time, about 20 minutes, followed by a quick baking period of 25 minutes, you’ll have a delightful dish in no time. The combination of creamy and cheesy flavors with tender chunks of chicken and mushrooms will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Key Ingredients for The Best Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
- 300g cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
- 200g spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth (low-sodium is preferred)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (120g) grated mozzarella cheese (for creaminess)
- 1 cup (100g) mushrooms (sliced, any variety you prefer)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
- ½ cup (60g) breadcrumbs (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes until soft.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring gently until everything is well coated in the creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy your delicious creation!
Top Tips for Perfecting The Best Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
- Substitutions: If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat cream or even Greek yogurt. For added flavor, experiment with spices like Italian seasoning or a pinch of nutmeg.
- Timing: Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the chicken in the skillet—just enough to heat through is perfect. Keeping the sauce creamy and not letting it boil too long will give a fantastic texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your chicken tetrazzini, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you need to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 3 months. When reheating, it’s best to use the oven to maintain the crispy texture—simply cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For quick reheating, you can use the microwave, but note that it won’t maintain the original texture as well.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and bring home the joy of The Best Easy Chicken Tetrazzini! Your family will thank you for it!
Chicken Tetrazzini
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 300 g cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
- 200 g spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium is preferred) 240ml
- 1 cup heavy cream 240ml
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (for creaminess, 120g)
- 1 cup mushrooms (sliced, any variety you prefer) (100g)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping) (60g)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes until soft.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Add the shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring gently until everything is well coated in the creamy mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy your delicious creation!
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