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Welcome to a delicious and stress-free dinner solution with this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe. This creamy and comforting dish will not only satisfy your taste buds but also make your weeknight meal planning a breeze. The rich sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms all come together beautifully to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I first discovered the magic of this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Dinner during a hectic week when I needed a meal that would stretch beyond just one night. The joy of seeing my pickiest eater ask for seconds and cheer when I pulled out the second casserole from the freezer was priceless. This recipe is truly a lifesaver for busy days when you crave a delicious homemade meal without the hassle.
Don’t forget to try out my secret weapon for a perfectly smooth cream sauce – white pepper. Passed down from my grandmother, this little tip adds a subtle warmth to the sauce that black pepper can’t replicate. Get ready to enjoy a versatile and forgiving dish that can be customized to your liking, whether you swap the protein, add more veggies, or adjust the creaminess. This Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Dinner is sure to become a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table.
Quick Benefits
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily swap ingredients like chicken for turkey or shrimp, and customize the sauce with various herbs, wines, or mustard for a personalized touch.
- Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Prepare and freeze the casserole for up to 2 months, offering a convenient solution for busy weeknights.
- Comforting and Family-Friendly: Rich, velvety sauce coats every strand of pasta, creating a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
- Health-Conscious Options: Make lighter versions by using milk instead of heavy cream, incorporating whole wheat pasta for added fiber, or adding extra veggies like peas or broccoli for a healthier twist.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Chicken Tetrazzini: Quick and Delicious Main Course Recipe
- Versatile and Flexible: This recipe provides endless possibilities for customization, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. From swapping proteins to adding different vegetables or adjusting the creaminess, you can make it your own.
- Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Perfect for busy schedules, this dish can be prepared in advance, frozen, and enjoyed later. It’s a lifesaver for those hectic days when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
- Creamy and Comforting: The rich, velvety sauce coated with tender chicken, mushrooms, and pasta creates a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the ultimate comfort food that will make you feel cozy and satisfied.
- Family-friendly Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, this Chicken Tetrazzini is a guaranteed hit with the whole family. It’s a recipe that will have your pickiest eater asking for seconds and cheering for more.
- Nostalgic and Heartwarming: This recipe holds sentimental value, making it a nostalgic and heartwarming dish to prepare. With secret tips passed down from generations, it’s like having a piece of family tradition at your dinner table.
- Adaptable for Dietary Needs: Whether you’re looking to make it lighter by using milk instead of cream or adding more veggies for a nutritious boost, this recipe can be easily adapted for various dietary preferences.
- Easy and Convenient: With simple steps and common ingredients, this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is easy to follow, making it convenient for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Ingredients for Savory Chicken Tetrazzini: Quick and Delicious Main Course
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups cubed cooked chicken
- 4 ounces sliced pimientos, drained
- 1/3 cup butter, cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 12 ounces canned mushroom stems and pieces, drained
- 14.5 ounces chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1.5 cups half-and-half cream
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
Pro Tips for Savory Chicken Tetrazzini: Quick and Delicious Main Course
Pro tip #1: When making the creamy sauce for Chicken Tetrazzini, remember to use white pepper for a smoother finish. White pepper blends in seamlessly and adds a gentle warmth that black pepper can’t match, creating a velvety sauce. This little secret will elevate your dish and give it that extra touch of sophistication.
Pro tip #2: Tetrazzini is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey, shrimp, or even make a vegetarian version with extra mushrooms and veggies. Experiment with different herbs, mustard, or wines to personalize the sauce. Additionally, you can opt for lighter alternatives like using milk instead of heavy cream for a healthier version without compromising on flavor. Flexibility and creativity are key to making this recipe your own.
How to Make Savory Chicken Tetrazzini: Quick and Delicious Main Course
Step 1: Prepare Spaghetti
Prepare spaghetti following package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make Cream Sauce
In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, and white pepper until smooth. Gradually add chicken broth, half-and-half, and heavy whipping cream. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Take the cream sauce off the heat. Mix in cooked chicken, drained mushrooms, and drained pimientos. Combine with cooked spaghetti and toss until evenly coated.
Step 4: Prepare Casseroles
Evenly divide the mixture into two greased 11×7-inch baking dishes and sprinkle each with grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake or Freeze
To serve immediately, bake one uncovered casserole at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through. To freeze the second casserole, cover and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Step 6: Reheat Frozen Casserole
Thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Bake covered at 350°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until heated through. Stir before serving.
Storage Tips
Once the Chicken Tetrazzini is cooked and you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring a delicious meal with all the flavors intact.
If you want to save a batch for later, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking it. Cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen Tetrazzini, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking it according to the original instructions. Freezing the casserole allows for a convenient meal on a busy day without compromising on taste or quality.
To lighten up the dish, consider using milk instead of half-and-half or heavy cream, and you can also reduce the amount of cheese used. Additionally, you have the flexibility to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like peas, broccoli, or spinach to enhance the flavors and nutritional value of the Chicken Tetrazzini.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist on this Chicken Tetrazzini, replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas, tofu, or a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Doubling the mushrooms and adding in vegetables like peas, broccoli, or asparagus can also enhance the dish with more earthy flavors and textures.
To make a lighter version of this creamy Tetrazzini, opt for using light cream or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Additionally, consider reducing the amount of Parmesan cheese or using a lighter cheese option like mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can easily be substituted for the spaghetti to add more fiber or accommodate dietary needs.
If you prefer a different flavor profile, experiment with adding ingredients like white wine, Dijon mustard, or fresh herbs to the sauce. You can also try enhancing the dish with different types of pasta such as fettuccine or linguine for a variation in texture while still enjoying the comforting flavors of this classic casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Transform your Chicken Tetrazzini into an elegant dinner party dish by serving individual portions in ramekins topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley. Pair with a side of garlic breadsticks for a complete and satisfying meal that will impress your guests.
For a cozy night in, serve your Chicken Tetrazzini family-style in a large baking dish, allowing everyone to scoop out their desired portion. Accompany this comforting dish with a side of roasted broccoli drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for a well-balanced and flavorful dinner that will warm both hearts and bellies.
FAQs for Savory Chicken Tetrazzini: Quick and Delicious Main Course
Can I use a different type of pasta besides spaghetti?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or any long pasta you prefer. The dish will still taste amazing!
How should I store leftovers of this Chicken Tetrazzini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I omit the pimientos or substitute them with something else?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pimientos, you can leave them out or replace them with diced bell peppers for a similar flavor.
How do I freeze this Chicken Tetrazzini for later use?
After assembling the casserole but before baking, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Dinner recipe is not just a delicious meal but a testament to the joy of homemade comfort food. Embrace the versatility of this dish and make it your own by adding personal touches and substitutions that suit your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a freezer-friendly option for busy days, this recipe has got you covered.
So, gather your ingredients, set aside a little time for cooking, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Dinner. Enjoy the process of creating something special in your kitchen and savor the satisfying flavors that will bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy cooking, and may each bite of this comforting dish fill you with contentment and happiness!
Savory Chicken Tetrazzini: Quick and Delicious Main Course
Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini: A comforting dish with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety sauce that’s freezer-friendly and sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time20 Minutes
Cook Time45 Minutes
Total Time65 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings8 Servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups cubed cooked chicken
- 4 ounces sliced pimientos, drained
- 1/3 cup butter, cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 12 ounces canned mushroom stems and pieces, drained
- 14.5 ounces chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1.5 cups half-and-half cream
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
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Prepare Spaghetti: Prepare spaghetti following package instructions, then drain and set aside.
-
Make Cream Sauce: In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, and white pepper until smooth. Gradually add chicken broth, half-and-half, and heavy whipping cream. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2 minutes.
-
Combine Ingredients: Take the cream sauce off the heat. Mix in cooked chicken, drained mushrooms, and drained pimientos. Combine with cooked spaghetti and toss until evenly coated.
-
Prepare Casseroles: Evenly divide the mixture into two greased 11×7-inch baking dishes and sprinkle each with grated Parmesan cheese.
-
Bake or Freeze: To serve immediately, bake one uncovered casserole at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through. To freeze the second casserole, cover and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
-
Reheat Frozen Casserole: Thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Bake covered at 350°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until heated through. Stir before serving.
