Chicken Tetrazzini
Indulge in the creamy, savory goodness of Chicken Tetrazzini, a classic comfort food that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and it’s sure to please the whole family. With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, Chicken Tetrazzini is a must-try recipe that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of Chicken Tetrazzini contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This nutritional information is for one person and can vary based on ingredient choices.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, cooking until thickened.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
- Stir in shredded chicken and frozen peas.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the sauce mixture.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake for 20 minutes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cooked turkey for chicken and use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter dish, use low-fat cream and cheese. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables and use vegetable broth.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Tetrazzini pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Chicken Tetrazzini can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy.
- Not allowing the sauce to thicken properly may result in a watery dish.
- Using too much salt can overpower the flavors.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven can affect cooking time.
- Skipping the cheese topping can lead to a less flavorful dish.
Helpful Tips
- Cook the noodles al dente for better texture.
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta varieties such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta used.
Is Chicken Tetrazzini suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Chicken Tetrazzini can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
How can I make it healthier?
You can lighten the dish by using low-fat cream and cheese, adding more vegetables, or using whole-grain pasta.
What can I add to enhance flavor?
Consider adding cooked bacon, fresh herbs, or a splash of white wine to the sauce for added depth of flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.
Conclusion
Chicken Tetrazzini is a rich and satisfying dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a perfect choice for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful culinary experience!
Chicken Tetrazzini
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, cooking until thickened.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
- Stir in shredded chicken and frozen peas.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the sauce mixture.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake for 20 minutes.