Imagine a culinary masterpiece called Chicken Tetrazzini: a glorious pasta bakes brimming with creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and delectable garlic mushrooms. It’s the epitome of comfort food, a timeless classic in the world of creamy pasta bakes.
Now, let’s talk about its origin. While it may sound Italian and is named after the renowned opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, the truth is, it’s not really Italian at all. Legend has it that a clever chef at an American hotel crafted this dish in honor of Tetrazzini herself. You won’t find it in authentic Italian cookbooks, but who cares when it’s this scrumptious?
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Picture succulent chicken mingling with garlic-infused mushrooms, all enveloped in a velvety béchamel sauce, and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta before being baked to golden perfection. Just the thought of it is enough to make your taste buds dance with anticipation.
Chicken tetrazzini recipe video
Ingredients:
- 250g spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a baking dish with olive oil and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Let’s get that big pot of salted water boiling. Once it’s bubbling away, add in the pasta and cook it until it’s just right, following the instructions on the package for that perfect al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
If you haven’t already cooked the chicken, you can do so by boiling or baking it until fully cooked. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In a big skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until they’re softened and fragrant, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to brown.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture in the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked spaghetti or fettuccine and shredded chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley.
Step 7: Bake the Tetrazzini
Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy topping. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the sauce starts bubbling.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve the Chicken Tetrazzini hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with your loved ones!
This Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious!
Chicken tetrazzini nutrition information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Serving Size | 1 Serving |
| Calories | 450 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| – Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 80mg |
| Sodium | 700mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| – Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 25g |
Chicken tetrazzini health benefits:
- Protein Source: Chicken breasts provide high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Antioxidants: Garlic and onions contain antioxidants that support immune function and overall health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Mushrooms are a good source of vitamins and minerals like potassium, copper, and selenium, which contribute to various bodily functions.
- Calcium Intake: Parmesan cheese offers calcium, vital for bone health and muscle function.
Storage Instructions:
After preparing Chicken Tetrazzini, follow these guidelines for storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat and reuse instructions:
Reheat instructions:
When ready to enjoy leftovers:
- Microwave: Reheat individual servings in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
- Oven: For a crispy texture, reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying.
Reuse Suggestions:
Transform leftovers creatively:
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use leftover Chicken Tetrazzini as a filling for stuffed bell peppers, topped with cheese and baked until tender.
- Pasta Salad: Turn chilled Tetrazzini into a refreshing pasta salad by adding fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Creamy Casserole: Layer leftover Tetrazzini with additional cheese and vegetables in a baking dish, then bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting casserole.
These recommendations ensure a delightful meal and a pleasant culinary experience!
Recipe Notes and Tips:
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
- Customize with additional vegetables like peas or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
- Serve with a side of green salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal.
What to serve with Chicken Tetrazzini
- I highly recommend balancing out your meal with some greens—take a peek at my Vegetable Sides section (recently reorganized by vegetable for your convenience) for inspiration.
- And if you’re feeling indulgent, why not accompany your main dish with some Garlic Bread? Or, if you’re in the mood to take the cheesiness up a notch, opt for the Cheesy Garlic Bread.
- As for dessert, if you’re sticking with the Italian vibe, Tiramisu is a perfect choice. But if you’re aiming for a cozy winter meal, why not whip up a comforting pudding? Try one of these: