Unlock flavorful memories: a nostalgic chicken tetrazzini with sherry

Chicken tetrazzini is a classic dish that combines the richness of chicken, the creaminess of a béchamel sauce, and the aromatic notes of sherry. This delectable recipe will tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for more.

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• Mushrooms: 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• Onion: 1 medium onion, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup
• Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons
• Milk: 2 cups
• Dry sherry: 1/2 cup
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
• Egg yolks: 2 large
• Salt and black pepper: to taste
• Egg noodles: 1 pound, cooked according to package directions

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

2. Make the béchamel sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of 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, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the sherry and Parmesan: Stir in the sherry and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, mushrooms, onions, béchamel sauce, and cooked egg noodles. Stir to combine.

5. Prepare the egg yolk mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and 1/4 cup of milk.

6. Temper the egg yolks: Gradually whisk the egg yolk mixture into the chicken mixture, stirring constantly. Do not overmix.

7. Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

A Culinary Masterpiece for Every Occasion

This chicken tetrazzini recipe with sherry is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic sherry create a symphony of flavors that will impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.

Tips for a Perfect Tetrazzini

• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the final dish. Choose fresh, flavorful chicken and use a good quality dry sherry.
• Don’t overcook the sauce: The béchamel sauce should be thickened but not too thick. If it becomes too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Temper the egg yolks: This step is crucial to prevent the egg yolks from curdling. Always whisk the egg yolks with a small amount of milk before adding them to the hot sauce.
• Bake until golden brown: The tetrazzini should be baked until the top is golden brown and bubbly. This ensures that the sauce has set and the dish is cooked through.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use different pasta: You can substitute egg noodles with penne, spaghetti, or any other pasta of your choice.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your tetrazzini, such as peas, carrots, or broccoli.
• Use white wine: If you don’t have sherry, you can use dry white wine as a substitute.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this dish gluten-free.

Health Benefits of Chicken Tetrazzini

While chicken tetrazzini is not necessarily a health food, it does offer some nutritional benefits:

• Protein: Chicken is a lean protein source that helps build and repair tissues.
• Calcium: Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Vitamins: The vegetables in this dish provide vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Final Thoughts: A Culinary Delight for the Ages

Chicken tetrazzini with sherry is a classic dish that has stood the test of time. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic sherry create a flavor combination that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a delicious meal, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: How long can I store leftover chicken tetrazzini?
A: Leftover chicken tetrazzini can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this dish up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just assemble the dish and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake according to the recipe instructions.