One Pot Chicken Tetrazzini

If you’re searching for a comforting, creamy pasta dish that will warm your heart and fill your belly, look no further than this One Pot Chicken Tetrazzini. This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, cheesy sauce, all combined with perfectly cooked pasta in just one pot. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that minimizes cleanup? Let’s dive into why this recipe works, what you need, and how to create this comforting dish.

Why This Recipe Works

One Pot Chicken Tetrazzini is not only easy to make, but it also brings together a wonderful combination of flavors and textures. Cooking everything in one pot means the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors of the chicken and mushrooms, creating a cohesive and satisfying meal. The creamy sauce, complemented by the savory chicken and fragrant mushrooms, makes for a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What We’re Using

• 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted, divided) – for sautéing and adding richness.
• 1 chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into cubes) – the star protein of the dish.
• 2 cups mushrooms (cleaned and sliced) – adding earthy flavor and texture.
• 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste) – enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste) – for a touch of spice.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) – for an extra flavor boost.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – for thickening the sauce.
• 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium) – to cook the pasta and provide depth of flavor.
• 1 cup milk (I used 2%) – for creaminess.
• 8 ounces spaghetti (fettuccini or linguini, uncooked) – the perfect pasta base.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese – for that irresistible cheesy goodness.
• 2 tablespoons parsley (fresh, chopped) – for garnish and freshness.

Essential Tools for Success

• Large pot or Dutch oven – for cooking everything in one go.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping the chicken and vegetables.

Directions: One Pot Chicken Tetrazzini

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the cubed chicken breast. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed mushrooms, stirring to coat them evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Then, add the milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, stirring well to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, return the sautéed chicken to the pot. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Dietary Customizations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more mushrooms or other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
• Low-Carb: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Problems & Prevention

• Sticky Pasta: Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more broth or milk.
• Grainy Sauce: Ensure to whisk the broth and milk in slowly to prevent lumps when adding to the flour.
• Overcooked Chicken: Cook the chicken until just done; it will cook a bit more when combined with the pasta.
• Too Thick: If the sauce becomes too thick, add more broth or milk until the desired consistency is reached.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To cool One Pot Chicken Tetrazzini, allow it to sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For freezing, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To rewarm, gently heat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short bursts until heated through.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken, simply add it towards the end of the cooking process to warm it through without overcooking.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or even water in a pinch. However, vegetable broth will provide more flavor than water.

Why did my sauce turn out too thick?

If your sauce is too thick, it’s likely that the pasta absorbed too much liquid while cooking. You can easily fix it by adding a bit more broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the pasta, then store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, heat it up and continue with adding the pasta and cooking.

Bring It Home

One Pot Chicken Tetrazzini is a fantastic way to bring comfort food to the dinner table with minimal effort and maximum flavor. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and satisfying pasta, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. The best part? It all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a hearty, delicious meal that the whole family will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, One Pot Chicken Tetrazzini is here to impress. Happy cooking!