Introduction
Transform leftover chicken (or rotisserie!) into a creamy, cheesy, comforting Chicken Tetrazzini in under 30 minutes! This recipe is your weeknight lifesaver, proving that delicious doesn’t have to mean difficult. Perfect for busy cooks who crave flavor without the fuss.
Why This Works
This recipe is all about speed and satisfaction. We use readily available ingredients and simple techniques to deliver a restaurant-quality dish in a fraction of the time. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Key Ingredients
- 🐔 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 🍝 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🥛 1 cup heavy cream
- 🍄 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 🧅 ½ cup chopped onion
- 🧈 2 tablespoons butter
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta: Cook fettuccine according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes more.
3️⃣ Create the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4️⃣ Combine Ingredients: Add shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve: Stir in fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for ultimate speed.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
Heat Control
Medium heat is key for sautéing the vegetables without burning them. Low heat for the cream sauce prevents scorching and allows it to thicken gently. Monitor carefully!
Crunch Factor
While this recipe is creamy and comforting, you can add a textural element by topping with some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed croutons before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Prep ingredients ahead of time – chop veggies the night before for a super-fast weeknight meal.
- For a richer, deeper flavor, add a tablespoon of chicken broth to the cream sauce.
- A splash of white wine adds another layer of complexity to the sauce.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish travels well! Package individual portions in charming reusable containers for a thoughtful gift.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Tetrazzini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cream sauce for a kick.
🌟 Mediterranean Tetrazzini: Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a vibrant twist.
🌟 Creamy Pesto Tetrazzini: Substitute pesto for the parsley and add a handful of pine nuts for extra flavor and crunch.
🌟 Gourmet Mushroom Tetrazzini: Use a mix of wild mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms for an elevated flavor profile.
Troubleshooting
- Sauce too thin: Simmer the sauce for a longer time, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it.
- Pasta too dry: Add a little more cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
- Chicken too dry: Ensure your chicken is properly cooked and moist before adding it to the sauce.
FAQ
- Can I use different pasta? Yes, other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini work well.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time, then assemble and cook the dish just before serving.
- Can I freeze this dish? While freezing is possible, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
- What kind of cheese can I substitute? A blend of Gruyère and Swiss would also be delicious.
Conclusion
This 30-Minute Chicken Tetrazzini is a guaranteed weeknight winner! It’s quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. Share this recipe with your friends and family – and don’t forget to rate it on RateMyRecipes! Enjoy!
30-Minute Chicken Tetrazzini: Weeknight Dinner Winner
A quick and creamy chicken tetrazzini that's perfect for a weeknight meal, packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180u00b0C (350u00b0F).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautu00e9 until softened.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the shredded chicken, peas, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the broth.
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with leftover turkey or add your favorite vegetables.