If you're in search of a comforting and hearty dish that’s easy to make, look no further than this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe. This classic casserole is perfect for a family dinner, get-together, or even as leftovers for lunch the next day. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory mushrooms, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Follow along for step-by-step instructions on how to create this delightful meal, along with some tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Keep reading to master the art of making this delicious recipe!

What is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is a pasta-based casserole dish that originated in the United States, typically featuring chicken or turkey, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. It's baked to perfection with melted cheese on top, providing a comforting, hearty meal that satisfies. The dish is said to be named after Luisa Tetrazzini, a famous Italian opera singer. Today, it's enjoyed by many across the world for its rich flavors and ease of preparation. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and velvety sauce with pasta makes this dish both a crowd-pleaser and a convenient choice for any meal.

Ingredients List for Chicken Tetrazzini

Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to create your easy Chicken Tetrazzini. Feel free to check your pantry before heading to the store, as many of these ingredients are kitchen staples.

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
8 oz spaghetti or linguine (cooked al dente)
1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 cup chicken broth
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoon olive oil
¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Chicken Tetrazzini is how flexible it is. You can tweak the recipe to your liking or make adjustments based on dietary needs and preferences.

Turkey instead of chicken: Have some leftover turkey from a holiday meal? Swap it in for the chicken to create a turkey tetrazzini variation.
Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, use whole wheat pasta, or if you're gluten-sensitive, opt for a gluten-free version.
Dairy-free options: To make this dish dairy-free, use plant-based creams and cheese alternatives such as coconut milk or cashew cream, and vegan cheese.
Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and double up on the mushrooms or add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for a veggie-packed version.
Different cheese varieties: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can also experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère for a more complex flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of water and add a pinch of salt. Cook the spaghetti or linguine until just al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: If you're using raw chicken, cook it in a skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, shred or cube the chicken. You can also use leftover cooked chicken for this step.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoon of butter and 2 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Mix well until combined. If using, add the white wine for extra depth of flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, followed by a layer of breadcrumbs for added crunch. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan if desired.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. If the breadcrumbs aren’t browning enough, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 3-4 minutes to get a nice crisp topping.
Serve: Once baked, let the Chicken Tetrazzini rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken up and make it easier to slice and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

Overcooking the pasta: Always cook the pasta al dente since it will continue to cook while baking in the oven. Overcooked pasta may turn mushy.
Not using enough seasoning: Don’t forget to taste your sauce before baking to ensure it’s well-seasoned. The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and pasta benefits from a good amount of salt, pepper, and possibly a dash of nutmeg or herbs.
Skipping the cheese topping: The cheese and breadcrumbs create a delightful golden crust on top of the casserole, so don’t skimp on this step!
Forgetting to let it rest: Let the tetrazzini sit for a few minutes after baking to help the sauce set. Slicing too soon may cause the dish to fall apart.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you present and serve your Chicken Tetrazzini can elevate it from a humble casserole to a gourmet-looking dish. Here are some ideas to enhance both presentation and serving.

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

Serve Chicken Tetrazzini with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. The freshness and crunch of the greens balance out the creamy richness of the casserole.
A crusty garlic bread or a loaf of sourdough is an excellent side to soak up any extra sauce.
For a well-rounded meal, pair the dish with a glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Tetrazzini

Garnish the top with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serve individual portions on large white plates to let the dish’s golden-brown crust stand out.
For a more elegant touch, you can serve Chicken Tetrazzini in small ramekins or oven-safe bowls for individual servings.

Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Tips

Make ahead: Chicken Tetrazzini is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when ready to serve.
Freeze it: This dish freezes well. Simply wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Customize the veggies: If you’re looking for more vegetables in your diet, consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or peas into the mix. Simply sauté them with the mushrooms and onions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the dish.

Q: Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare it in advance and either refrigerate or freeze the casserole before baking.

Q: How long does Chicken Tetrazzini last in the fridge? A: Once cooked, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I omit the mushrooms? A: Yes, if you're not a fan of mushrooms, you can leave them out or substitute them with another vegetable of your choice.

Q: Can I use canned chicken? A: While fresh or rotisserie chicken is preferred for the best flavor and texture, canned chicken can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfect blend of flavors, this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is sure to be a hit at any dinner table. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that can be customized to suit your taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it in advance for a special occasion, this Chicken Tetrazzini is bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Give it a try, and don't forget to share your version with friends and family!