Easy Chicken Tetrazzini: Our 1 Best Recipe! (Creamy & Comforting)

Welcome to the ultimate guide for preparing Easy Chicken Tetrazzini: Our 1 Best Recipe! (Creamy & Comforting). This classic dish, known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal. We’re here to show you how simple and satisfying it can be to whip up this comforting pasta bake.

Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for delicious leftovers, this chicken tetrazzini delivers every time. Get ready to impress with minimal effort!

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini: A Comfort Food Classic Made Simple

Chicken Tetrazzini is a beloved casserole that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Our version simplifies the traditional recipe without sacrificing any of that irresistible creamy goodness.

It’s the perfect dish for those busy evenings when you crave something homemade and hearty. Say goodbye to complicated cooking and hello to effortless deliciousness.

Why This is Our #1 Best Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

What makes our Easy Chicken Tetrazzini stand out? It’s the perfect balance of convenience and incredible taste. We’ve streamlined the steps, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

This recipe uses readily available ingredients and smart techniques to ensure a perfectly creamy, flavorful result every single time. It’s truly a winner!

Essential Ingredients for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

You’ll be surprised how a few simple ingredients can come together to create such a delicious meal. Most of these items are probably already in your pantry!

Pantry Staples & Fresh Finds

12 oz spaghetti or linguine
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, but highly recommended for depth)
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step: How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a fantastic chicken tetrazzini bubbling in your oven in no time. It’s easier than you think!

Preparation & Cooking Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms and onion; cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove vegetables from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a roux.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth, then stir in heavy cream and dry sherry (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese, cooked chicken, and the sautéed vegetables. Fold in the thawed peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the cooked spaghetti with the creamy chicken mixture. Pour everything into your prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden brown on top.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Tetrazzini

Want to elevate your tetrazzini? These quick tips will ensure your dish is always a smash hit. From prep to bake, we’ve got you covered.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked cannellini beans for a hearty meatless version.
Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce can add a delightful kick.
Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of Parmesan and a little Swiss or gruyere can add complexity.
Use Leftover Turkey: This recipe is fantastic for repurposing Thanksgiving or holiday turkey leftovers.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This savory Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides.

Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, or some warm garlic bread for dipping into that amazing sauce. For more meal ideas, Read our in-depth guide here.

A light, fruity white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, complements the rich flavors beautifully. You can also explore pairing options at Wine Folly: https://winefolly.com/tips/food-wine-pairing-basics/

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of this chicken tetrazzini recipe are just as delicious! Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick.

FAQ

Can I prepare Easy Chicken Tetrazzini in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole (up to step 7) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

What kind of pasta works best for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini?

While spaghetti or linguine are traditional, you can use other long pasta shapes like fettuccine or even shorter pasta like penne or rotini if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it al dente!

Is it possible to freeze leftover Chicken Tetrazzini?

Absolutely! Cover the baked and cooled tetrazzini tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until bubbly.