Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini: Comfort Food Classic
This creamy chicken tetrazzini recipe is total comfort food! Easy enough for weeknights, fancy enough for guests. Includes sherry (optional!). Find out my secret for the *best* flavor. ... Smart Kitchen Basics
Okay, right, let's stir up some magic for our Chicken Tetrazzini , shall we? It's the ultimate comfort food dinner !
Creamy Dream: look into into Chicken Tetrazzini
Ever have one of those days where only a proper hug will do? Well, this Chicken Tetrazzini is like a hug in a dish! It's creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavour.
This classic baked pasta dish is thought to have originated in san francisco way back when. it’s a bit of american culinary history.
Think tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a dreamy creamy pasta bake sauce all bubbling away in the oven.
Comfort Food, Elevated
It is a chicken casserole recipe that's proper simple to whip up. from prep to plate, you're looking at about an hour.
This recipe makes enough to feed a family of six, maybe even eight if you are stingy. this easy chicken tetrazzini is definitely achievable.
Honestly, it's about more than just filling your belly. chicken tetrazzini is pure nostalgia. it's ideal for a chilly evening, a sunday lunch, or when you're just feeling a bit knackered and need a pick-me-up.
What makes this recipe special is that it uses everyday ingredients.
Now, for the good stuff. this mushroom chicken pasta dish offers a good hit of protein from the chicken, and a decent dose of vitamins and minerals from the mushrooms.
Plus, dairy equals calcium! it's the perfect way to use up that leftover chicken recipe from sunday roast, too. and the best part? loads of tetrazzini variations exist, and we can adapt it to suit your tastes.
Next up, let's gather all our ingredients.
Ingredients & Equipment for Chicken Tetrazzini
Okay , right, let's stir up some magic for our chicken tetrazzini , shall we? here are ten to boost that search engine score: creamy pasta bake, chicken casserole recipe, comfort food dinner, tetrazzini with sherry, easy chicken tetrazzini, mushroom chicken pasta, baked pasta dish, tetrazzini variations, leftover chicken recipe, and chicken tetrazzini history.
Main Players in Our Creamy Pasta Bake
For this easy chicken tetrazzini , we need some key ingredients. The quantities? Totally crucial. We’re aiming for comfort food perfection.
- Cooked Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Use quality cooked chicken, so tender, maybe even leftovers. It adds a delightful depth to our chicken casserole recipe .
- Pasta: 1 pound (450g) . Spaghetti or fettuccine work a treat.
- Mushrooms: 8 oz (225g) . Cremini or button mushrooms are best.
Tetrazzini with Sherry : Seasoning Secrets
Good seasoning is essential. Our mushroom chicken pasta needs a flavour boost. It is about what you love.
- Essential: Salt, Pepper, Nutmeg. Don't skip these!
- Flavor Boosters: Sherry (optional). Adds warmth. Worcestershire sauce could work.
- Substitutions: Dried herbs for fresh if you need.
Kit Essentials for a Baked Pasta Dish
No fancy gadgets needed here! Just the basics for our tetrazzini variations .
- Essential: Large skillet, pasta pot, 9x13 baking dish.
- Alternatives: Use a deep oven-safe pan if you don't have the baking dish.
Honestly , i’ve messed up this recipe before by overcooking the pasta. don't do it! aim for al dente . it makes all the difference.
This recipe delivers a comfort food dinner that your family will adore. and who knows, maybe you will dive in chicken tetrazzini history and re-create the original dish and even more tetrazzini variations .
Let's do this!.
Alright, let's stir up some magic for our Chicken Tetrazzini, shall we?
Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini: Comfort Food Classic Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini: The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner
Honestly, who doesn't love a good creamy pasta bake ? chicken tetrazzini is basically a hug in a dish. this chicken casserole recipe is proper comfort food.
Originating in san francisco, chicken tetrazzini with sherry combines chicken, shrooms, and a creamy sauce. this version of easy chicken tetrazzini is proper tasty.
Prep time? About 25 mins. Cook time? 35 mins.
Prep Steps: Mise en Place and Smart Moves
Essential mise en place is key, innit? dice the onion, slice those shrooms and grate the parmesan. trust me, it saves time later.
Shred your cooked chicken. get everything in its place before you even turn on the hob.
Time-saving tip? Pre-shredded cheese is your friend.
Let's Get Cooking: Step-by-Step
- First, get your chicken sorted. Season those 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear them in a hot skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) . Let it cool, then shred.
- Cook 1 pound of spaghetti till al dente. Drain well. Overcooking pasta is a classic mistake!
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in the skillet. Sauté 8 oz of sliced cremini mushrooms and 1 diced onion till softened. Add 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over the shrooms. Cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of chicken broth. Add 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of sherry (optional), and ¼ cup of Parmesan. Simmer till thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg.
- Add your cooked chicken and pasta. Mix it all up.
- Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with ½ cup of Parmesan and breadcrumbs (optional). Dot with butter. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes. You want it golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5- 10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips and Dodgy Moments
Use leftover roast chicken. It’s a great way to use up Sunday's roast and saves time. You know?
Common mistake? Overcooking the sauce. Keep the heat low to avoid it thickening too much. If it does, add a splash more chicken broth.
Make-ahead option? Assemble the baked pasta dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time, though.
It's the perfect mushroom chicken pasta for everyone, and even with tetrazzini variations . It is a great leftover chicken recipe ! And this chicken tetrazzini history goes way back!.
See? Chicken Tetrazzini isn’t scary. Just a bit of prep and following the steps. You’ll have a comfort food dinner that’s proper lush.
Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of this awesome chicken tetrazzini recipe! Because honestly, the details are what can elevate this comfort food dinner from good to amazing .
Recipe Notes
Serving Like a Pro
Okay, so you've got this bubbling creamy pasta bake fresh out of the oven. now what? presentation is key, my friend.
Think about plating it up in individual bowls, maybe with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
A side of garlic bread is always a winner. honestly? it's pure joy. pair it with a crisp green salad, too! as for drinks, a chilled glass of pinot grigio works wonders, or even just a good ol' iced tea.
Storage Secrets
Right, so you've made this huge chicken casserole recipe and have leftovers. no worries! let it cool completely, then bung it in an airtight container.
It'll happily sit in the fridge for up to 3 days. freezing is also an option! portion it out first, and it'll keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating? oven's best – about 350° f ( 175° c) until heated through. pop a bit of cheese on to keep it moist.
The microwave also works for quick heat.
Tetrazzini Variations: Let's Get Creative
Honestly, this recipe is just a starting point! want to make it gluten-free? easy peasy! just swap out the regular pasta for a gluten-free version and use gluten-free flour for the sauce.
For a lighter version, try using evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. seasonal ingredient swaps? why not! add some roasted butternut squash in the autumn or some peas and asparagus in the spring.
It's totally customisable.
Nutrition Nuggets
Easy chicken tetrazzini isn't exactly a health food, but it does have its benefits. you're getting a good dose of protein from the chicken.
Plus, dairy provides calcium. try to remember about portion control! it all depends on your preference.
So there you have it! all the little tips and tricks to make your chicken tetrazzini experience a total success.
Now, go forth and bake! and don't be afraid to experiment – that's where the real magic happens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken tetrazzini ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!
Absolutely! Chicken tetrazzini is a great make-ahead dish. Assemble the entire casserole, but don't bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it's going in cold. Just like planning your outfit the night before, it saves time in the morning!
My chicken tetrazzini sauce is too thick/thin! Help!
Ah, the Goldilocks dilemma! If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a little extra chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. If it's too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes, allowing it to reduce and thicken. You can also make a slurry of cornstarch and water and mix it in to thicken the sauce further.
What's the best way to store leftover chicken tetrazzini?
Leftover chicken tetrazzini will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or bake the whole casserole covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. It might not be quite as good as fresh, but it's still a tasty leftover lunch!
I'm trying to eat healthier, can I lighten up this chicken tetrazzini recipe?
You bet! To make a lighter version, you can use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. Reduce the amount of butter used to sauté the vegetables, or use olive oil spray. You could even use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. A little goes a long way and still satisfies the craving!
Can I substitute the sherry in chicken tetrazzini? What if I don't have any on hand?
Not a problem if you haven't got any sherry lurking about! You can substitute the dry sherry with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white wine vinegar. The sherry adds a depth of flavour, but these alternatives provide a similar tang that complements the creamy sauce. Alternatively, a splash of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works great too.
I'm a vegetarian - can I still enjoy tetrazzini?
Absolutely! Chicken tetrazzini is easily adapted to a vegetarian version. Simply omit the chicken and replace it with an equal amount of sautéed tofu or extra mushrooms. Tofu will need to be pressed to remove excess water before cooking it. You can even add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavour and nutrients.
