Introduction

Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting and delicious pasta bake that combines tender pieces of chicken with a creamy sauce, mushrooms, and spaghetti. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, as it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 500g spaghetti
– 400g cooked chicken, shredded
– 250g mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Prep Time

The preparation time for Chicken Tetrazzini is approximately 20 minutes. This includes cooking the pasta and prepping the ingredients for the sauce.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for this dish is about 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time to prepare and cook Chicken Tetrazzini is around 50 minutes. This recipe yields 6 servings, making it an ideal choice for families or small gatherings.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook 300g spaghetti (or your pasta of choice) until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 500g of diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter. Sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until softened. Then add 200g of sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.

Make the Sauce

Add ¼ cup of flour to the skillet, stirring to coat the vegetables. Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of thyme.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, sautéed vegetables, and sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar) over the top. Optionally, add breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let it Cool

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken further.

Notes

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.

Variations

Feel free to mix in other vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition.

Cheese Options

Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors, such as gouda or parmesan.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Cooking Pasta

Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven during baking. This prevents it from becoming mushy.

Making the Sauce

Prepare a creamy sauce using butter, flour, and milk to create a smooth base for the tetrazzini. Ensure to stir constantly to avoid lumps.

Combining Ingredients

Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce, chicken, and vegetables thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.

Baking

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake until bubbling and golden on top, creating a desirable crust for added texture.

Broiling for Finish

Use the broiler at the end of baking to achieve a golden, crispy top layer, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor of the dish.

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute other pasta types like penne or fusilli; just ensure they are cooked al dente before mixing.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it when ready to serve.

Can I freeze chicken tetrazzini?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can use leftover turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even cooked mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

The Chicken Tetrazzini Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe provides a wonderful balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy. The ease of preparation and the option to customize with different ingredients make it a versatile choice for any occasion.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Tetrazzini

Substitute chicken with a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.

Seafood Tetrazzini

Incorporate shrimp or crab in place of chicken for a delicious seafood twist on the classic dish.

Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Bake

Add cream cheese and artichokes to enhance the flavor profile while keeping the creamy texture.

Pesto Chicken Tetrazzini

Mix in pesto sauce for a vibrant and aromatic variation that elevates the dish with fresh basil flavors.

BBQ Chicken Tetrazzini

Use shredded BBQ chicken to create a smoky, sweet version that is perfect for casual gatherings.

Spicy Chicken Tetrazzini

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat and give an exciting twist to the traditional recipe.