Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

When you’re on the lookout for a comforting, hearty meal, Easy Chicken Tetrazzini proves to be an excellent choice. This dish is packed with flavor, creamy goodness, and delightful textures that will please diners of all ages. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a dish for a potluck, this Chicken Tetrazzini is an assured crowd-pleaser.

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini isn’t just simple to prepare; it’s a dish that draws on the delightful flavors of cooked chicken and an array of cheeses. Utilizing a rotisserie chicken makes it even more convenient, saving you time without compromising on taste. It’s creamy, cheesy, and wonderfully satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can customize it to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

The dish is also a great way to use leftovers, turning yesterday’s meal into a delicious new creation. With a beautiful golden-brown top and a creamy interior, this Chicken Tetrazzini is sure to elicit smiles at the dinner table.

How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Now that you’re eager to dive into the world of Chicken Tetrazzini, let’s get started! Preparing this dish is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps.

Ingredients

Before we jump into the directions, let’s gather everything you need:

• 16 oz linguini (you can also use fettuccini, spaghetti, bucatini, etc.)
• 1/4 cup butter, softened (for buttering the casserole dish)
• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken condensed soup
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened (make sure it’s soft enough to be whisked into the sauce)
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried parsley (plus more for topping)
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Directions

Let’s get cooking!

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil to cook the linguini. Cook the noodles to al dente according to the package instructions as you prepare the sauce base.
3. In your largest mixing bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, minced garlic, sour cream, chicken broth, dried parsley, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Whisk together until smooth and fully combined.
4. Stir in half of the shredded cheeses, shredded rotisserie chicken, and the cooked noodles. Toss gently until everything is well-coated and evenly mixed.
5. Use the softened butter to grease the bottom and sides of a casserole dish. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, distributing it evenly.
6. Top with the remaining handfuls of shredded cheese and a sprinkle of dried parsley for added flavor.
7. Bake in the oven for 35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Once it’s done, let it cool for a moment before serving. For an extra touch, I like to add a sprinkle of seasoning salt or red pepper flakes to elevate the flavors. This Chicken Tetrazzini pairs wonderfully with warm dinner rolls or Texas toast, and some steamed broccoli or a fresh salad rounds out the meal beautifully.

Pro Tips for Success with Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

• Cook the Noodles Perfectly: Aim for al dente noodles, as they’ll absorb some liquid during baking. This will prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier dish, feel free to add an extra can of cream of chicken soup or more sour cream.
• Mix Up the Cheeses: Don’t hesitate to try different cheese blends. A combination of pepper jack and mozzarella, or Swiss and provolone, can introduce new flavors.
• More Vegetables: Consider adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
• Potluck-Friendly: This dish is fantastic for potlucks. Just make sure to bake it in a disposable or easily transportable casserole dish.

Flavor Variations for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

• Mushroom Addition: Sauté fresh mushrooms and mix them into the sauce for a hearty and earthy flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat.
• Veggie Delight: Incorporate cooked broccoli or zucchini to make the dish more veggie-filled while adding color and nutrients.
• Italian Twist: Mix in diced sundried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean flair.
• Herb Infusion: Try substituting the dried parsley for fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fresh, fragrant taste.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Chicken Tetrazzini is versatile when it comes to side dishes. Here are a few excellent options to round out your meal:

• Steamed Vegetables: Pair with fresh steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy balance.
• Garlic Bread: Offer warm garlic bread or dinner rolls for sopping up the creamy sauce.
• Simple Salad: A fresh garden salad with vibrant greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully.
• Crispy Cornbread: On cooler days, a side of cornbread can provide a warm, comforting element to enrich the meal.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

This dish is great for leftovers! Here’s how to store or freeze your Chicken Tetrazzini:

• Refrigerating: Store any leftover Chicken Tetrazzini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or bake straight from frozen (just add some extra baking time).
• Reheating: If you’re reheating a frozen casserole, cover it with foil and bake at 350 degrees F for about 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here’s what you’re looking at for one serving:

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg

FAQ About Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Can I use fresh chicken instead of a rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh chicken, you can cook and shred it before mixing it into the casserole. Just ensure it is fully cooked and seasoned to your liking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Chicken Tetrazzini a day in advance. Assemble it in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Tetrazzini?

Certainly! You can replace the chicken with a medley of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Additionally, you may substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, swap out the linguini with gluten-free pasta and ensure that all your other ingredients, like the cream of chicken soup, are gluten-free as well.

What kind of cheese can I use in this dish?

You can experiment with various cheeses based on your preferences. Gouda, fontina, or even a dairy-free cheese can work great in this recipe. Feel free to mix and match!

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini is a delightful dish that brings together creamy goodness, tender chicken, and cheesy layers in a comforting casserole. It’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, and can conveniently adapt to your taste preferences as well. Enjoy making this dish, and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation! Whether you’re serving it up to family or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to impress.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a delicious journey into the world of comfort food with Easy Chicken Tetrazzini!

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