Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe: A Creamy, Comforting Classic
Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic comfort food, and while it might sound intimidating, it's surprisingly easy to make! This recipe simplifies the traditional version, delivering a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious dish without the fuss. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy Chicken Tetrazzini will become a family favorite.
What is Chicken Tetrazzini?
Chicken Tetrazzini is a baked pasta dish featuring cooked chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, typically made with a combination of cream of mushroom soup and cream. It's often mixed with cooked egg noodles or spaghetti and topped with breadcrumbs before baking, resulting in a bubbly, golden-brown crust. This recipe streamlines the process while retaining all the delicious flavors.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal. You'll need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cooked and shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: The base of our creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds creaminess and balances the soup's richness.
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Provides sharp, salty flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese (optional): Adds a deeper, more complex flavor.
- 8 ounces egg noodles: Cooked according to package directions.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Adds earthy flavor and texture.
- 1/4 cup butter: For sautéing the mushrooms and adding richness.
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs: For a crispy topping.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the dish perfectly.
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chicken Tetrazzini:
-
Prepare the Chicken: If using raw chicken breasts, cook them until fully cooked and then shred. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saving alternative.
-
Sauté the Mushrooms: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Parmesan cheese, and Romano cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
-
Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top.
-
Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Let the Chicken Tetrazzini stand for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting classic!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli florets.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
SEO Keywords:
This recipe post is optimized for keywords like: easy chicken tetrazzini recipe, simple chicken tetrazzini, quick chicken tetrazzini, chicken tetrazzini recipe from scratch, best chicken tetrazzini recipe, creamy chicken tetrazzini, and variations thereof. The article naturally incorporates these keywords within the text, improving SEO performance.
Conclusion:
This easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness of the classic dish without the complicated steps. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Try it today and impress your family and friends!
