Ah, Chicken Tetrazzini! Just saying the name brings back a flood of memories from cozy family dinners and lazy Sundays spent in the kitchen. I remember the first time I tried it; my dear grandmother pulled a bubbling, cheesy casserole from the oven, and the smell was enough to make anyone swoon. This dish is like a warm hug, perfect for when you want something hearty yet comforting. Plus, it has a way of transforming leftover chicken into something extraordinary—you know, making leftovers feel gourmet!
What I love most about Chicken Tetrazzini is its versatility. You can toss in whatever veggies you have lying around, perhaps some mushrooms or peas, and it still turns out fantastic. It’s definitely one of those recipes that leaves you feeling satisfied and a little nostalgic at the same time. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!
What’s in Chicken Tetrazzini?
Chicken: The star of the show! I typically use rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor, but if you’re feeling ambitious, poached chicken works marvelously too.
Spaghetti or Fettuccine: These noodles provide a great base that holds onto the creamy sauce. I lean towards spaghetti because it’s fun to twirl around my fork, but any pasta you prefer will do.
Mushrooms: Fresh or canned, mushrooms add a lovely earthy flavor to the dish. I adore sautéing fresh mushrooms in butter—seriously, is there anything smell better?
Peas: These tiny green gems add color and sweetness, balancing out the savory elements.
Cheese: A combination of grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella creates that gooey, wonderful top layer. Go heavy on the cheese—life is too short for skimpy cheese!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the creamy base of the tetrazzini, and it adds a nostalgic flavor. I go for the low-sodium kind so I can control the saltiness.
Chicken Broth: Helps to stretch the sauce; I prefer low-sodium broth here as well.
Butter and Flour: These ingredients are for the roux, which thickens the sauce and gives it that creamy, dreamy texture. Use unsalted butter for better flavor control!
Is Chicken Tetrazzini Good for You?
Well, it depends on your perspective! Chicken Tetrazzini has its perks, but it’s also a comfort food that can be rich. Let’s explore a bit:
Chicken: High in protein and versatile, chicken is great for muscle maintenance and keeping you full longer.
Mushrooms: These fungi are low in calories but high in fiber and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
Pasta: While it provides carbohydrates for energy, consider whole grain options for added fiber and nutrients.
Cheese: In moderation, cheese offers calcium and protein, but it’s also high in saturated fat. Balance is key here!
So, while Chicken Tetrazzini can be a bit indulgent, enjoy it mindfully and savor each cheesy bite!
Ingredients
– 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie is great!)
– 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup peas (frozen works perfectly)
– 2 cups cream of mushroom soup (low-sodium)
– 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
– 1 tsp onion powder (optional)
*This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for a family gathering or leftovers for the week!
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the mushrooms until they’re tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the flour to the skillet and stir for about a minute to make a roux.
5. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously until it thickens. Then stir in the cream of mushroom soup.
6. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Fold in the cooked chicken and peas.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta with the chicken mixture. Toss until well coated.
8. Transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Tetrazzini
If you’re looking to jazz things up, serve this dish with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for that ultimate comfort meal experience. You can also sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top right before serving for a pretty finish. And here’s a little pro tip: this dish also freezes beautifully! So, make a double batch and save some for later—life-saver on those busy weeknights!
I really hope you give this Chicken Tetrazzini a try! There’s something magical about its creamy, cheesy goodness, and I can’t wait for you to experience it. Let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share your own twists on this recipe! Happy cooking!
