Description
Chicken Tetrazzini
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Stir in cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, and sautéed mushrooms until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 480 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Chicken Tetrazzini every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: cook and shred the chicken, boil the spaghetti to al dente, and slice the mushrooms. Preheat your oven and grease the baking dish. In your skillet, sauté the mushrooms in butter until they release their moisture and brown slightly, about 5-7 minutes, for deeper flavor. In your large mixing bowl, whisk the soups, sour cream, broth, and seasonings until completely smooth. This prevents any lumps in the final sauce. Gently fold in the spaghetti, chicken, and mushrooms, taking care not to break the pasta. Transfer to the dish and top with cheeses. Bake on the center rack until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden, not just melted.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, creamy casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a vinaigrette, steamed green beans or broccoli, or garlic bread for soaking up the sauce. For a special touch, garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It’s an excellent make-ahead dish for potlucks and a fantastic way to use leftover holiday turkey or rotisserie chicken.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta and chicken. Sauté mushrooms. Mix soups, sour cream, broth, and seasonings. Combine everything in a bowl. Transfer to a greased dish, top with cheeses, and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of canned soup? Create a homemade sauce by melting 4 tbsp butter, whisking in 1/4 cup flour, then gradually adding 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk. Cook until thickened, then use in place of the canned soups and broth.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, for up to 3 months. Assemble but do not bake. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
What other proteins can I use? Turkey is a classic substitute. For a different twist, try cooked shrimp or even a plant-based chicken alternative.
My sauce seems too thick. What should I do? Simply stir in an additional 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chicken broth or milk into the mixture before baking to reach your desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Boil spaghetti only to al dente, as it will continue to soften and absorb sauce in the oven.
- Not Sautéing Mushrooms: Adding raw mushrooms releases too much water into the casserole, making it soggy. Always sauté first.
- Undermixing the Sauce Base: Whisk the canned soups and sour cream thoroughly to eliminate lumps for a smooth, cohesive sauce.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese Exclusively: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can hinder melting. For best results, shred your own mozzarella.
Conclusion
Chicken Tetrazzini is the quintessential comfort food, combining creamy sauce, tender pasta, and hearty chicken in one satisfying dish. This recipe provides a reliable foundation that is both forgiving for weeknights and impressive enough for company. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that your whole family will love. It’s a timeless recipe that proves simple ingredients can yield truly delicious results.