Elevate your dinner: easy chicken tetrazzini recipe with a bell pepper twist

Indulge in the delectable flavors of chicken tetrazzini with bell peppers, a classic dish elevated with the vibrant colors and crunch of fresh bell peppers. This recipe combines creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and sautéed bell peppers to create a symphony of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Chicken Tetrazzini:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly:

• 8 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine), cooked al dente
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese

Instructions

1. Make the Alfredo Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
• Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
• Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

2. Sauté the Bell Peppers:

• In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
• Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Assemble the Tetrazzini:

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, Alfredo sauce, and cooked pasta.
• Stir until well combined.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish:

• Pour the tetrazzini mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.

5. Top with Cheese:

• Sprinkle the Gruyère cheese evenly over the top.

6. Bake:

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve:

• Let the tetrazzini rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of milk for the Alfredo sauce.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo sauce for a warm, aromatic touch.
• If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute chicken broth.
• Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix, such as mushrooms, peas, or asparagus.
• Serve the tetrazzini with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Tetrazzini: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Alfredo sauce for a kick.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Tetrazzini: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sautéed vegetables.
• Seafood Chicken Tetrazzini: Replace the chicken with a combination of cooked shrimp and scallops.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Chicken tetrazzini is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Calcium: The Parmesan and Gruyère cheeses provide a good amount of calcium, which is important for bone health.
• Low in Fat: The Alfredo sauce is made with low-fat milk, making this dish a relatively healthy option.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Whether it’s a family gathering, a dinner party, or a romantic evening, chicken tetrazzini with bell peppers is a dish that will impress. Its creamy texture, vibrant colors, and delicious flavors make it a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Final Thoughts

This chicken tetrazzini recipe with bell peppers is a culinary masterpiece that combines the classic flavors of tetrazzini with the fresh, vibrant notes of bell peppers. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in a taste of pure culinary bliss.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use frozen bell peppers?
A: Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers. Just thaw them before sautéing.

Q: Can I make the tetrazzini ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the tetrazzini up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven before serving.

Q: What can I serve with chicken tetrazzini?
A: Chicken tetrazzini pairs well with a variety of sides, such as garlic bread, green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.