Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Chicken Tetrazzini is one of those comforting dishes that reminds me of home-cooked family dinners. I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter as she stirred a bubbling pot of creamy pasta goodness on the stove, the aroma wafting through the house, making everyone’s mouth water.
This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl, combining tender chicken, spaghetti, and a velvety sauce that just envelops you in a symphony of flavors. What I love about Chicken Tetrazzini is its flexibility—it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, and you can toss in whatever veggies you have on hand! Plus, it’s perfect for potlucks or cozy weeknight dinners.
## What’s in Chicken Tetrazzini?
Let’s talk about what makes this dish so delectable. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken: The star of the show! I always prefer using cooked chicken, shredded or diced. You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
Pasta: Traditional recipes call for spaghetti, but I love to mix it up with fettuccine or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Mushrooms: I adore adding sautéed mushrooms for that earthy flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave them out!
Broth: Chicken broth is essential for the sauce, giving it depth. Homemade broth is wonderful if you have it, but low-sodium canned broth works great too.
Milk and Cream: For that creamy texture, a combo of whole milk and a touch of heavy cream is just right. It makes everything lush and dreamy!
Cheese: I like to mix mozzarella and parmesan for that perfect melty layer on top. Plus, who doesn’t love cheese?
Spices: A bit of garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme to season—simple but effective!
## Is Chicken Tetrazzini Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health benefits (and considerations) of this dish.
Chicken: A great source of lean protein, perfect for muscle repair and growth—especially after that workout!
Mushrooms: These little guys are low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals, plus they add a nice texture to the dish.
Cream and Cheese: While they do provide some calcium and flavor, they also add extra calories and fat, so moderation is key. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cheese or substituting some of the cream with Greek yogurt.
Overall, Chicken Tetrazzini can be a part of a balanced diet if you’re mindful of portion sizes and pair it with a colorful salad or steamed veggies!
## Ingredients
To serve about 4-6 people, here’s what you’ll need:
– 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
## How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini?
Ready to whip up this creamy goodness? Here’s how you do it:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they’re golden brown. Throw in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, sautéed mushrooms, chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, thyme, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
## A Few Tasty Twists
Getting creative in the kitchen can be a lot of fun!
– **Veggie Up**: Add spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra color and nutrients.
– **Spicy Kick**: If you like it spicy, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
– **Herbal Notes**: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives added just before serving can brighten up the dish wonderfully!
I encourage you to gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this Chicken Tetrazzini masterpiece. It’s the kind of dish that sparks conversation and warms the heart! Give it a try and let me know how it turns out—I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!
