If you’re in the mood for a comforting, creamy pasta dish, this Chicken Tetrazzini is just what you need. It’s a delightful casserole that combines tender chicken, rich sauce, and pasta, all baked to perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Imagine the aroma of sautéed mushrooms and garlic wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this dish. This Chicken Tetrazzini is a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of elegance to a simple weeknight meal.
Whether you’re using leftover chicken or cooking it fresh, this recipe is flexible and allows for a variety of ingredients, making it a great option for any cook.
Creating Comfort with Chicken Tetrazzini
Chicken Tetrazzini is the epitome of comfort food, combining the beloved flavors of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta. This dish is a wonderful choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering both richness and warmth.
The process begins with the aromatic notes of sautéed mushrooms and garlic that fill the kitchen. As the ingredients come together, anticipation builds for the delightful casserole that awaits. The versatility of this recipe allows you to use either leftover chicken or freshly cooked meat, making it a practical option for any cook.
Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Bake
To create a delightful Chicken Tetrazzini, a few key ingredients are essential. Spaghetti serves as the base, providing a hearty foundation that blends beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Cooked chicken, shredded into bite-sized pieces, adds protein and substance. Mushrooms, onions, and garlic contribute depth and flavor, while a combination of butter, flour, broth, cream, and Parmesan cheese creates the luscious sauce that holds all the ingredients together. Topping it off, shredded mozzarella and crunchy breadcrumbs are essential for that golden, bubbly finish.
Crafting the Creamy Sauce
The sauce is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a rich and creamy delight. It starts with sautéing onions, garlic, and mushrooms until tender, releasing their flavors.
Next, flour is added to thicken the mixture, followed by gradual incorporation of chicken broth and cream. The addition of Parmesan cheese along with seasonings like salt, pepper, and thyme enhances the sauce, making it irresistibly rich. This creamy concoction is what ties the casserole together, enveloping the pasta and chicken in a luxurious layer of flavor.
Assembling the Casserole
Once all components are ready, the assembly process is quick and straightforward. The cooked spaghetti is combined with the shredded chicken and the creamy sauce, ensuring every strand is coated in deliciousness.
This mixture is then transferred to a greased baking dish, where it is topped with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs. The contrast of textures from the creamy interior and the crispy topping creates a satisfying bite, making each serving a treat.
Baking to Perfection
With the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C), the assembled casserole is baked until the top is golden and bubbling. This usually takes around 25-30 minutes, during which the aromas waft through the house, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
After baking, a brief cooling period allows the dish to set before serving. This Tetrazzini is not only visually appealing but also a warm meal that brings people together, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Chicken Tetrazzini shines as a main dish but can be complemented with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
For those looking to switch things up, various ingredients can be added or substituted. Consider incorporating peas, spinach, or even a dash of white wine for added depth. The possibilities are endless, allowing each cook to personalize the dish to their taste.
Deliciously Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini
This Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, savory dish featuring tender chicken pieces, mushrooms, and spaghetti, all enveloped in a luscious sauce. It’s topped with crispy breadcrumbs and melted cheese, making every bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, 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 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and mushrooms, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
