Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini

This Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting dish made effortlessly in your slow cooker. The tender chicken and pasta soak up a luscious creamy sauce made from soup and broth, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese for a rich and savory flavor.

Perfect for busy nights when you want a hassle-free dinner that still tastes incredible, this slow cooker recipe delivers deliciousness with minimal prep time. Just set it and let the slow cooker work its magic, and you’ll have a meal your whole family will love. Serve with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Full Recipe:

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 12 oz uncooked spaghetti

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken breasts.

4. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

5. Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks right in the slow cooker.

6. Break the uncooked spaghetti into halves or thirds and add it to the slow cooker, stirring it into the creamy sauce.

7. Cover and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the pasta is tender.

8. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until melted and creamy.

9. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

History and Origin

The origins of Chicken Tetrazzini trace back to the early 1900s, with a dish that was named after the famous Italian opera singer, Luisa Tetrazzini. While the exact story behind the dish’s creation is a bit unclear, many believe it was created in her honor after she performed at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City. Some sources suggest that chef Luigi Della Casa, working at the hotel, created the recipe for Tetrazzini, combining delicate chicken and pasta with a creamy sauce, which became an instant hit.

Chicken Tetrazzini is often thought of as an American dish, combining European ingredients like pasta, cream, and cheese. However, it’s Americanized in the sense that it uses convenience ingredients like canned soups or store-bought stocks and broths. Over the years, the dish has undergone various transformations, with different variations incorporating mushrooms, peas, or even seafood like shrimp. The slow cooker version we’re focusing on today is a modern take on this classic, simplifying the recipe to allow for minimal effort but maximum flavor.

Variations and Adaptations

While the traditional Chicken Tetrazzini calls for chicken, pasta, and a rich cream-based sauce, variations of the dish exist across the globe. The beauty of this dish is its versatility, and you can adapt it in several ways to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

1. Protein Substitutes: The original recipe calls for chicken, but it can easily be swapped with other proteins like turkey, pork, or even ground beef for a more rustic take. Some adventurous cooks may opt for a seafood variation with shrimp or crab, adding a luxurious twist to the dish.

2. Pasta Choices: Though spaghetti is the classic choice, you can easily substitute it with fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni, depending on what you have on hand. Each shape will give the dish a slightly different texture, but it all works well in this creamy sauce.

3. Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian variation, you can skip the meat entirely and load the dish up with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. These additions help to give the dish substance and flavor, creating a comforting meal without the protein.

4. Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Options: For those with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to modify the recipe. Gluten-free pasta can be substituted for the traditional spaghetti, and dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut milk or cashew cream, can be used in place of the heavy cream and cheese. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic dairy-free cheese substitute that can still give that cheesy flavor.

5. Cheese Variations: While the recipe traditionally calls for mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or even a creamy goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini is a rich and indulgent dish, providing a comforting balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fats: 18g

• Saturated Fat: 9g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

• Sodium: 700mg

This dish offers a substantial amount of protein from the chicken and a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the pasta, making it a filling meal. However, it’s also quite high in saturated fats, especially if you’re using whole-fat cream or cheese. For those looking to reduce the fat content, consider using lower-fat dairy options, such as reduced-fat cream or cheese.

While Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini is not necessarily a low-calorie dish, it can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. For those looking to boost the nutritional value, adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli can increase the fiber and vitamins in the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini is a rich, filling dish that doesn’t need much to accompany it. Here are a few ideas for serving:

1. Salad Pairing: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonderfully with this creamy dish. The crispness of the salad provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the Tetrazzini. A Caesar salad or a side of roasted vegetables could also complement the dish perfectly.

2. Bread: For a complete meal, serve the Tetrazzini with some crusty garlic bread or a soft dinner roll. The bread will be perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce, making every bite count.

3. Wine Pairing: A white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs nicely with Chicken Tetrazzini. Their bright acidity helps balance the richness of the creamy sauce. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir can work as well, providing a subtle contrast without overpowering the dish.

4. Veggie Sides: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans offer a healthy and delicious addition to the meal. You can even toss in some sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Tips and Tricks for Success

1. Shred the Chicken Early: Make sure to shred the chicken once it’s cooked and tender. This helps the chicken absorb the creamy sauce and makes it easier to mix with the pasta later on. A fork or a hand mixer can make this process quick and easy.

2. Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the slow cooker, it’s important not to overcook it. Once the pasta is added to the slow cooker, check on it after 30 minutes and stir to prevent sticking. It should be al dente, not mushy.

3. Use Full-Fat Ingredients for Best Flavor: While it’s tempting to opt for low-fat or fat-free ingredients, using full-fat cream, cheese, and broth will give the dish the best flavor and texture. However, if you’re trying to reduce calories or fat, lighter versions of these ingredients can still work well.

4. Season to Taste: Be sure to taste and adjust the seasonings, especially the salt and pepper, before serving. The canned soups and broths can sometimes be high in sodium, so adding extra seasoning will help bring the dish to life.

Potential Health Benefits

Despite being a comfort food, Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini can offer some health benefits thanks to its ingredients. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is important for muscle repair and immune function. It’s also rich in vitamins such as B6, which helps maintain brain function.

The addition of cheese and cream provides calcium, an essential mineral for bone health, while the pasta offers a good source of carbohydrates for energy. If you include vegetables in your version, like spinach or peas, you’ll boost the fiber content and add vitamins A, C, and K to the dish.

While the dish can be quite rich, it can be made healthier by swapping in lower-fat or dairy-free options or by adding extra vegetables to increase its nutrient density.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini is a beloved comfort food that combines the creamy richness of a traditional Tetrazzini with the convenience of slow cooking. With its easy preparation and flavorful results, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal without much fuss. Whether you’re making it for dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy weekend meal, this dish is sure to be a hit.

It’s easy to personalize, too—so feel free to experiment with different proteins, pasta types, or cheese to make it your own. Don’t forget to pair it with a salad or some garlic bread for the ultimate meal. Give Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini a try, and it may just become your new go-to dinner!