Oh, let me tell you about the warm embrace that is chicken tetrazzini with cream of mushroom soup! This dish brings back so many loving memories of family gatherings, where the smell of cheesy goodness wafted through the air and everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in. It’s one of those comforting meals that just feels like home, doesn’t it? I can still picture my grandmother standing in the kitchen, her apron dusted with flour, as she stirred together the creamy sauce and tender chicken. She always said it was the love you put into it that made it taste so good! And you know what? She was right!
The best part about this chicken tetrazzini is how easy it is to whip up. You don’t need to be a master chef—just some simple ingredients and a bit of love. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family celebration, this dish is the perfect choice for a cozy meal. Trust me, once you serve this to your loved ones, they’ll be asking for seconds, and you’ll find yourself smiling at the joyous chatter around the table. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a little piece of happiness served in a casserole dish!
Ingredients for Chicken Tetrazzini with Cream of Mushroom Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover chicken you have on hand.
- 8 ounces spaghetti: Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if that suits your dietary needs.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: This gives the casserole its creamy base and rich flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Homemade or store-bought, this adds moisture and depth to your dish.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This will melt beautifully and add that cheesy goodness we all love.
- 1 cup peas, frozen or fresh: They add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness. Frozen works perfectly!
- 1/2 cup milk: Whole milk is great, but you can use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives too.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This enhances the flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to add a little warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste, especially if you’re using low-sodium broth.
- 2 tablespoons butter: This will be melted and mixed with breadcrumbs for a lovely crispy topping.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned, depending on your preference!
And there you have it! All the ingredients you need to create a wonderful chicken tetrazzini that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
How to Prepare Chicken Tetrazzini with Cream of Mushroom Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this comforting chicken tetrazzini! Don’t worry, it’s simpler than it looks. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so that your casserole cooks evenly.
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and set it aside. You want it to have a little bite since it will cook further in the oven.
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until it’s well blended.
- Add the spaghetti: Gently fold in the cooked spaghetti and the peas, along with half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure everything is coated in that creamy mixture!
- Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, so every bite is filled with goodness.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, melt the butter and mix it with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this buttery mixture over the top of your casserole. Then, add the remaining Parmesan cheese for that extra cheesy crust.
- Bake: Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and your kitchen smells heavenly!
And that’s it! Just let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You’ll want to scoop it out carefully to keep all those yummy layers intact. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken tetrazzini with cream of mushroom soup is truly a gem in the kitchen! Here’s why it’ll quickly become a family favorite:
- Quick to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful dish ready to pop in the oven in no time!
- Hearty and filling: It’s packed with protein from the chicken and cozy pasta, making it a complete meal that satisfies.
- Great for leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, so you can enjoy comforting meals without the extra effort.
- Comforting flavors: The creamy sauce, cheesy goodness, and tender chicken create a warm, inviting dish that wraps you in a hug with every bite.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe is such a beloved classic around the table!
Tips for Success
Making chicken tetrazzini with cream of mushroom soup is all about finding what works for you! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Substitutions: If you’re out of chicken, feel free to use turkey! It’s a great way to repurpose leftovers. You can even swap in cooked ham or veggies for a vegetarian option.
- Pasta options: If you’re looking for a gluten-free meal, just use gluten-free pasta. It cooks just like regular pasta and tastes delicious!
- Add some veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, consider tossing in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach. They blend beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Make it your own: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar or mozzarella can add a delightful twist.
Remember, cooking is a canvas—feel free to paint it with your favorite flavors!
Nutritional Information
As you savor this comforting chicken tetrazzini with cream of mushroom soup, it’s nice to know a bit about what you’re enjoying! Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving size of 1 cup:
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
These values can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this gives you a good idea of what to expect. It’s a hearty meal that balances protein, carbs, and fats, making it a satisfying choice for any dinner table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover chicken tetrazzini with cream of mushroom soup is a wonderful treat for the next day! To store it properly, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent any unwanted moisture from making it soggy. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it’s time to enjoy those delicious leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) again. Transfer the tetrazzini to a baking dish if it’s not already in one, and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s heated through and bubbly. If you like, you can remove the foil during the last few minutes to let the top get nice and crispy again. Enjoy your comforting meal all over again!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions I often hear about making chicken tetrazzini with cream of mushroom soup, along with helpful answers:
Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! While I love spaghetti, you can use any pasta shape you prefer—penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta work wonderfully. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? No worries! You can make your own creamy sauce by combining equal parts of sour cream and chicken broth, or you can use a homemade white sauce. Just add some sautéed mushrooms for that classic flavor!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the chicken tetrazzini and cover it tightly with foil. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven as directed. It’s a great way to save time on busy days!
Is this dish suitable for freezing? Definitely! If you want to make it ahead, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly and it can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then cook it as instructed.
Can I add more vegetables? Yes, feel free to get creative! Adding sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning if you add more ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this comforting chicken tetrazzini with cream of mushroom soup, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal even more delightful! A simple green salad is always a great choice; it adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the casserole. Try tossing together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a bright touch.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, garlic bread or a crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up that creamy goodness. You could even serve some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add a pop of color and nutrition to your plate. And don’t forget a nice glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon to elevate your dining experience! Enjoy your meal with family or friends, and relish the comfort it brings!
easy chicken tetrazzini recipe
comforting casseroles
cream of mushroom soup
Comforting Chicken Tetrazzini with Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
A hearty chicken tetrazzini made with cream of mushroom soup, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup peas, frozen or fresh
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions and drain.
- In a large bowl, mix together chicken, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add in the cooked spaghetti, peas, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Melt butter and mix with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Top with remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and golden on top.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked turkey for chicken.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken tetrazzini, cream of mushroom soup, comfort food, easy recipe
