Chicken Tetrazzini Recip

Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. This creamy pasta bake is loaded with tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and gooey cheese, all brought together in a rich and flavorful sauce. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to make Chicken Tetrazzini from scratch, along with tips, variations, and even keto-friendly and low-carb options for those looking to cut back on carbs without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces spaghetti noodles
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 ¼ -1 ½ lbs chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 lb white button mushrooms, sliced thick
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 cup shredded white cheddar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Saute the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is lightly browned. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Season the Sauce: Stir in the dried parsley, crushed red pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked spaghetti noodles, cooked chicken, and shredded cheeses to the skillet with the sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and evenly distributed.
8. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
9. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve: Remove the Chicken Tetrazzini from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms or your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Seafood Twist: Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or crabmeat for a delicious seafood Tetrazzini.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Creamy Texture: For an even creamier sauce, you can add more heavy cream or a splash of white wine while cooking.

Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:

• Zucchini Noodles: Replace the spaghetti noodles with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb alternative.
• Cauliflower Rice: Swap the pasta for cooked cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
• Almond Flour: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce for a low-carb version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch? Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a convenient option and adds delicious flavor to the dish. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and add it to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini? Yes, you can freeze Chicken Tetrazzini before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze.
3. Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled casserole for longer storage.

Chicken Tetrazzini is a timeless classic that’s beloved for its comforting flavors and creamy texture. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of home with this delicious Chicken Tetrazzini recipe!