ULTIMATE CREAMY CHICKEN TETRAZZINI

I can almost smell the warm, comforting aroma right now, just thinking about it! Growing up, my mom would make her famous Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini every year for my birthday. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a celebration, a hug in a bowl, and a tradition I’ve carried on with my own family. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini you’ll ever make!

Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini: A Classic Reimagined

Chicken Tetrazzini is a dish that evokes a sense of nostalgia for many. It’s comfort food at its finest, a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress. But let’s be honest, some versions can be a bit bland or dry. That’s why I’ve perfected this recipe to be the *ultimate* Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini – packed with flavor, incredibly moist, and guaranteed to disappear in minutes!

We’re not just throwing ingredients together here; we’re building layers of deliciousness. From the perfectly cooked chicken to the luscious cream sauce, every component plays a vital role in creating a symphony of flavors that will have everyone begging for seconds. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

What Makes This Tetrazzini the “BEST”?

You might be thinking, “Okay, okay, another chicken tetrazzini recipe… what’s so special about this one?” Well, let me tell you! This isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill casserole. Here’s what sets my recipe apart:

* The Cream Sauce: It’s rich, decadent, and perfectly seasoned. We’re talking a velvety smooth sauce that clings to every strand of pasta and morsel of chicken. No grainy or bland sauces here! * Perfectly Cooked Chicken: We’re using tender, juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor. I’ll show you my foolproof method for cooking chicken that’s never dry or tough. * The Right Balance of Cheese: A blend of Parmesan and mozzarella creates the perfect cheesy topping – bubbly, golden brown, and irresistibly delicious. * Mushrooms! I know, I know, not everyone loves mushrooms, but they add an earthy depth of flavor that elevates this dish to another level. Trust me on this one; even mushroom skeptics will be converted! * A Touch of Sherry (Optional, But Highly Recommended!): A splash of dry sherry adds a subtle complexity that you won’t be able to put your finger on, but it takes the flavor profile to new heights.

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make the Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini of your dreams? Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions, and I promise you’ll be amazed by the results!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial to get that perfect golden-brown top.
2. Cook the chicken. You can use about 3 cups of cooked chicken. My favorite method is to poach chicken breasts in chicken broth until cooked through (about 15-20 minutes). Shred or dice the chicken and set aside. Alternatively, if you are short on time, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken!
3. Cook the pasta. Cook 1 pound of spaghetti, fettuccine, or egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Al dente is key – the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.
4. Sauté the mushrooms. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. They should be fragrant and release their moisture.
5. Make the cream sauce. Add 4 tablespoons of butter to the skillet with the mushrooms. Once melted, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. The roux should be smooth and lightly golden.
6. Whisk in the liquids. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. The sauce will start to thicken as it simmers.
7. Add flavor. Stir in 1/4 cup of dry sherry (if using), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the other flavors.
8. Incorporate the cheese. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This adds a salty, savory note to the sauce.
9. Combine everything. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, mushroom cream sauce, and 1/2 cup of frozen peas (optional). Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Make sure the pasta is well-coated in the sauce.
10. Transfer to a baking dish. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
11. Top with cheese. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
12. Bake. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
13. Let it rest. Let the tetrazzini rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Ingredients List for Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini

Here’s a handy list of everything you’ll need to create this masterpiece:

• 1 pound spaghetti, fettuccine, or egg noodles
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• Cooking spray

Success Tips for the Perfect Tetrazzini

Here are my top tips to ensure your Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini is a resounding success!

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, and you don’t want it to become mushy.
• Make Your Own Roux: Don’t skip this step! The roux is essential for thickening the cream sauce and preventing it from being watery.
• Use Good Quality Chicken Broth: The flavor of your chicken broth will directly impact the flavor of the sauce. Use a good quality broth or, even better, homemade!
• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, provolone, or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the tetrazzini ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Variations to Make It Your Own

The beauty of Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini is that it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it to your liking with these variations:

* Add Vegetables: In addition to peas, try adding broccoli florets, asparagus tips, or chopped spinach. Sauté them along with the mushrooms. * Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat. * Use Different Protein: Swap the chicken for cooked turkey, shrimp, or even tofu. * Change the Pasta: Use different shapes of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or shells. * Add Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that’s irresistible. If you love the taste of bacon with chicken, you might also enjoy CHICKEN BACON PASTA.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also delicious served with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

Here are some other serving suggestions:

* Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that’s always a hit. * Steamed Green Beans: A light and refreshing side dish. * Roasted Asparagus: A simple and elegant accompaniment. * Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery arugula and bright lemon vinaigrette cut through the richness of the tetrazzini.

Making it a Casserole Extravaganza

If you’re in the mood for more casserole deliciousness, why not try some of my other favorites? For a fun twist, check out BBQ CHICKEN MAC HEAVEN, a cheesy, smoky explosion of flavor. Or, for a simpler weeknight meal, you can whip up the Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. Another great option is Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole! These recipes all offer that comforting, baked goodness that makes casseroles so irresistible.

Speaking of easy weeknight meals, be sure to check out Chicken Pasta!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini:

* Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. * Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the tetrazzini before reheating to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing Instructions

Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. Here’s how to freeze it:

* Assemble the tetrazzini in a freezer-safe baking dish. * Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. * Freeze for up to 3 months. * Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. * Bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

You can also freeze individual portions of tetrazzini in freezer-safe containers for easy lunches or dinners.

The Heart of the Dish: High-Quality Ingredients

While the method is important, using high-quality ingredients can truly elevate your Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini. Opt for fresh, flavorful mushrooms, good quality chicken broth, and creamy heavy cream. These seemingly small details make a huge difference in the overall taste of the dish. Consider using organic ingredients where possible for an even healthier and more flavorful outcome.

And while we are talking about Chicken pasta, don’t forget about this Chicken Pasta. It is an easy weeknight recipe.

A Final Word From Your Kitchen Bestie

Making Creamy The BEST Chicken Tetrazzini is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating a memory, a feeling of warmth and comfort that you can share with your loved ones. Don’t be afraid to experiment, to put your own spin on it, and to make it your own. Remember, the most important ingredient is love!

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!