The aroma of bubbling cheese and tender chicken wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. With each bite of this easy dish, you’re met with creamy goodness that wraps around your taste buds like a warm hug.
Remember the last time you tried to impress your friends with a fancy dinner? Well, this dish will have them singing your praises while you sip on a glass of wine, relaxing effortlessly as the oven does all the work. Your home will be filled with laughter, and your guests will be begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Easiest Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe is not only simple to make but also bursting with flavor
- It’s visually appealing, making it perfect for entertaining guests
- You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or switching up the protein
- Plus, it makes for fantastic leftovers that taste even better the next day!
I remember the first time I made Chicken Tetrazzini; my friends were skeptical at first but ended up asking for the recipe before they left!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor and aroma.
Pasta (Fettuccine or Spaghetti): Any long pasta works well; cook until al dente for the perfect texture.
Creme Fraiche: This adds a tangy creaminess that elevates the dish—totally worth it!
Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella & Parmesan): Use a mix for that gooey, melty goodness; don’t skimp here!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness and flavor balance.
Frozen Peas: They add color and sweetness; plus, no chopping required!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all those wonderful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make The Easiest Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare this delightful dish. Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks.
Cook Your Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your seasoned chicken breasts until golden brown on each side—about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let rest.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—just about 30 seconds should do. This step infuses incredible flavor into your dish.
Cook Your Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook your fettuccine until just al dente; remember it will continue cooking in the oven! Drain and set aside.
Create The Sauce: In a bowl, mix crème fraîche with chicken broth until smooth. Stir in shredded cheese, then fold in peas for added sweetness.
Combine Everything: Shred your cooked chicken and mix it with pasta in a large bowl. Pour sauce over everything and stir well to combine evenly.
Bake It! Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish and top with additional cheese if desired. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
And there you have it—the Easiest Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe that will impress even your most discerning guests!
You Must Know
- This Easiest Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe combines creamy textures with savory flavors
- Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a dish that transforms leftovers into a delightful meal
- The aromas wafting from the oven will have everyone gathering in the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta al dente while sautéing the chicken and veggies separately for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance flavors, use homemade broth instead of store-bought
- Don’t skip browning your chicken; it adds depth to the dish
- For creaminess, consider mixing in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before baking
I remember making this Easiest Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe for my family one Sunday night. The joy on their faces when they tasted it melted my heart.
FAQ
What is Chicken Tetrazzini?
Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy pasta dish featuring chicken, mushrooms, and often peas or other veggies.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I prevent my pasta from getting mushy?
Cook pasta until al dente, as it will continue cooking while baking in the oven.
Easiest Chicken Tetrazzini
Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this easy recipe is customizable and makes fantastic leftovers. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a savory meal that fills your home with delicious aromas and brings everyone to the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 cup crème fraîche
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown; let rest before shredding.
- Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet until fragrant (30 seconds).
- Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente; drain.
- In a bowl, mix crème fraîche with chicken broth until smooth; stir in cheeses and fold in peas.
- Combine shredded chicken with pasta, pour sauce over, and mix well.
- Transfer to the baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider including vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with mushrooms or tofu.
