Unveiling grandma’s wild chicken tetrazzini recipe: the legendary dish that will make your taste buds dance!

Grandma’s wild chicken tetrazzini recipe is a culinary masterpiece that has been passed down through generations. This tantalizing dish combines the rich flavors of wild chicken, creamy sauce, and tender pasta, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole wild chicken
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, water, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool.
4. Once cool, remove the chicken from the bones and shred it.

Making the Sauce:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Gruyere cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking the Pasta:

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions.
2. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Assembling the Tetrazzini:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and sauce.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Making the Topping:

1. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
2. Sprinkle the topping over the tetrazzini.

Baking:

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve grandma’s wild chicken tetrazzini hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

Variations

• Wild Mushroom Tetrazzini: Add 1 cup of sautéed wild mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor.
• Seafood Tetrazzini: Replace the chicken with 1 pound of cooked shrimp, scallops, or crab.
• Vegetable Tetrazzini: Substitute the chicken with a variety of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

Tips and Tricks

• For the best flavor, use freshly shredded chicken.
• Don’t overcook the sauce, as it will thicken further as it cools.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk.
• For a crispy topping, broil the tetrazzini for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

A Culinary Heritage

Grandma’s wild chicken tetrazzini recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary tradition that connects generations. The rich flavors and comforting textures will evoke memories of family gatherings and warm your heart with every bite.

What You Need to Know

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the tetrazzini up to 2 days ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and bake it before serving.

2. What kind of pasta can I use?

Any type of pasta can be used, but long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine work best.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the tetrazzini for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.