chicken tetrazzini recipe easy
The Best chicken tetrazzini recipe easy
I also like that it’s a balanced meal, with lean protein from the chicken and complex carbs from the pasta and vegetables. It’s not just filling, it’s nourishing, and it’s easy to customize—swap in extra veggies if you want more greens, or use whole wheat pasta if you’re watching your carb intake. It’s a dish that feels like a treat but doesn’t feel like a guilty pleasure, which is why I keep it in my rotation. Plus, it’s not too complicated to prep ahead, so you can make it a few days in advance and just reheat it when you’re ready to eat. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re doing something good for your family, whether you’re feeding them every day or just treating them to a comforting meal once in a while.

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini
A comforting one-pan dish with tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and pasta, perfect for a weeknight meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
👨🍳Directions
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1
Preheat oven to 375°F. Season chicken breasts with thyme and garlic powder, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside. -
2
In the same skillet, sauté garlic in the same oil for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 3 minutes. Stir in cooked macaroni and heavy cream, then return chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes. -
3
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and cover with foil. Bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 10 more minutes.
🔧Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tetrazzini
How do I ensure the chicken tetrazzini sauce is creamy without using heavy cream?
You can thicken the sauce with a mix of cornstarch and cold water, or blend in a splash of heavy cream with the cooked pasta to create a velvety texture. Stirring in a spoonful of sour cream at the end also adds richness without overpowering the dish.
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What’s the best way to cook the chicken to avoid dryness?
Cook the chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in a hot skillet with olive oil or butter. Remove them from the pan, then deglaze with the pan juices and sauce to keep them moist throughout the dish.
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Can I substitute whole wheat pasta for regular pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can, but adjust the cooking time to 12–15 minutes instead of the usual 10–12 minutes to avoid overcooking. Whole wheat pasta holds up well in creamy sauces, but keep an eye on it to prevent mushiness.
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How should I store leftovers to keep them fresh?
Cool the tetrazzini quickly in an ice bath or by transferring it to shallow containers, then refrigerate within two hours. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is bubbly again.
