Hearty and Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic

Transform your weeknight dinners or potluck offerings with this hearty and creamy Chicken Tetrazzini. Combining tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and rich Alfredo sauce, this dish is both comforting and impressive. Perfect for gatherings or a satisfying family meal, this Chicken Tetrazzini is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tetrazzini

This Chicken Tetrazzini recipe was born out of a moment of creativity with pantry staples and freezer essentials. The result is a dish that not only pleases the taste buds but also freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to prepare in advance for unexpected dinner plans or to share with friends and neighbors. Baked in a spacious 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeters) pan, it’s an excellent choice for potlucks and large gatherings. The combination of mushrooms, pimentos, and Alfredo sauce creates a warm and cozy meal that’s perfect for the fall season. Additionally, this versatile recipe works wonderfully with Thanksgiving leftovers, making it a great option for repurposing turkey into a new and delicious dish.

Ingredients for Hearty and Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini

FOR THE CAKE

• 1 pound (450 grams) spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
• 8 ounces (230 grams) sliced mushrooms (fresh preferred, but canned works)
• 2 jars (15 ounces each / 425 grams each) Alfredo sauce
• 1 can (10.5 ounces / 300 grams) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 ounces / 300 grams) cream of cheddar cheese soup
• 2 to 3 cups (300 to 450 grams) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 jar (4 ounces / 115 grams) pimentos, drained
• 1 cup (115 grams) shredded cheddar cheese

How to Prepare Hearty and Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember, the noodles will continue to cook in the sauce, so avoid overcooking them to prevent a mushy texture. For added flavor, consider substituting some of the pasta water with chicken stock. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms: While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are tender and have released their moisture, about 5 minutes. If you prefer fewer dishes, you can sauté the mushrooms directly in the pot used for the spaghetti after draining.
3. Combine Sauces and Ingredients: To the sautéed mushrooms, add both jars of Alfredo sauce, the can of cream of chicken soup, and the can of cream of cheddar cheese soup. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
4. Incorporate Chicken and Pimentos: Add the cooked chicken and drained pimentos to the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed and well-coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Mix with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce mixture. Gently toss until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce and all ingredients are well combined.
6. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius). Transfer the spaghetti and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeters) baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
7. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti mixture. This layer will melt and create a deliciously cheesy crust as the dish bakes.
8. Bake the Tetrazzini: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to become bubbly and golden brown.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the Chicken Tetrazzini from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Pair it with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

This Hearty and Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dining table. The rich combination of Alfredo and cheddar cheeses, tender chicken, and flavorful mushrooms creates a dish that is both indulgent and nourishing. Its ability to be prepared ahead of time and frozen makes it a practical choice for busy households or unexpected gatherings. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a festive potluck, or using it as a creative way to enjoy leftovers, this Chicken Tetrazzini is sure to impress and delight everyone who tastes it. Embrace the ease and deliciousness of this classic recipe and enjoy a meal that’s perfect for any occasion.