Southern soul food: elevate your dinner with our rich chicken tetrazzini recipe

Indulge in the irresistible charm of Southern cooking with our exquisite Chicken Tetrazzini recipe, a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound linguine or spaghetti noodles
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Sauce:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Whisk in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper.
6. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sauce is creamy and flavorful.

Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

1. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add the chicken to the sauce and stir to combine.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the linguine or spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package directions.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Assemble the Tetrazzini:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, chicken-sauce mixture, and parsley.
3. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Bake and Serve:

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations:

• Mushrooms: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms in butter until softened before adding to the sauce.
• Spinach: Wilt 1 cup of baby spinach in the sauce before adding the chicken.
• Seafood: Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp, crab, or a combination of seafood.

Tips:

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

The Southern Soul of Chicken Tetrazzini

This Chicken Tetrazzini recipe embodies the essence of Southern cooking, with its rich flavors, creamy sauce, and comforting warmth. It’s a dish that will bring family and friends together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Embark on a Culinary Adventure

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is an invitation to explore the vibrant flavors of Southern cuisine. So gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and embark on a culinary adventure that will satisfy your soul and leave you craving for more.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, macaroni, and fettuccine are all popular options.

Q: How can I make a gluten-free version?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and make sure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini?
A: Yes, you can freeze Chicken Tetrazzini for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.