Oh, Chicken Tetrazzini! Let me tell you, this dish holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, my mom used to whip up her version of Tetrazzini whenever we had leftover chicken or turkey. The smell of silky, creamy sauce bubbling in the oven, intertwined with the aromas of sautéed mushrooms and savory garlic, was nothing short of heavenly. It felt like a warm hug on a chilly day!
Fast forward a few years, and I still get nostalgic every time I make it. It’s the kind of comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy nights at home or for impressing guests at a casual dinner party. With its creamy texture and delectable flavors, Chicken Tetrazzini can easily become a family favorite, just like it did for me. And the best part? It’s simple enough to make that you won’t need to wait for a special occasion!
What’s in Chicken Tetrazzini?
Chicken: The star of this dish! I prefer using rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor, but any leftover cooked chicken works perfectly.
Mushrooms: These earthy delights add a rich, umami flavor. Fresh mushrooms are great, but canned or frozen works too if you’re in a pinch.
Spaghetti: The classic pasta choice! You could experiment with gluten-free or whole grain varieties if that’s your thing.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the base of the creamy sauce. I usually opt for a low-fat version to lighten it up, but go with your favorite brand!
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the sauce while keeping it from being too heavy. Don’t hesitate to use homemade if you have it on hand—nothing beats that flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: When it comes to cheese, I’m all about the flavor! Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish to another level.
Garlic: A must for that aromatic kick! You can never have too much garlic in my book.
Butter: Just a bit of butter helps with sautéing the mushrooms and intensifying flavors.
Is Chicken Tetrazzini Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health! Chicken Tetrazzini can be a comforting meal, but it’s crucial to be mindful of the amounts we consume.
Chicken: Packed with protein, it’s a fantastic option for muscle repair and growth.
Mushrooms: These little fungi are brimming with antioxidants and vitamins, supporting overall health.
Spaghetti: While it’s a tasty carb source, too much can spike your glucose levels, so don’t go overboard.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: The convenience is great, but these canned soups can be high in sodium. Look for lower-sodium options when possible.
Parmesan Cheese: Cheese does provide calcium but can also add extra fat and calories if you go heavy on it. Balance is key.
Overall, Chicken Tetrazzini can fit into a balanced diet if enjoyed in moderation.
Ingredients List
– 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for family gatherings or a week’s worth of lunches!
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and garlic, then sauté until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked spaghetti, sautéed mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until well-combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tetrazzini
What I love about this dish is how versatile it is! Consider pairing it with a fresh green salad tossed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some crusty garlic bread on the side for some added comfort. If you have leftovers (which is rare in my kitchen), scoop them into a serving dish and reheat in the oven with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for that melty goodness.
Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand as it’s sure to become a staple in your home, too! I hope you give it a try and love it as much as I do! If you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out!
