Ah, Valentine’s Day! A time for love, romance, and of course, delicious food to swoon over. One of my absolute favorite dishes to whip up for this occasion is Chicken Tetrazzini. It’s comforting, rich, and has a delightful mix of flavors that just warms your heart (and your tummy!) This recipe brings back sweet memories of cozy dinners shared with friends and family, where laughter and love filled the air along with the delightful aroma of this creamy pasta dish. Let me share my love for Chicken Tetrazzini with you, along with a simple, homemade garlic bread that’s a must-make on the side!
The best part about this dish? It’s easy to prepare, which means you’ll have plenty of time to set the mood with some candles and soft music while your masterpiece bakes away in the oven. So let’s dive in and create something special for this Valentine’s Day!
What’s in Valentine’s Day Chicken Tetrazzini?
Chicken: The star of the show! I typically use cooked and shredded chicken breast, which you can easily get from a store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s a time-saver, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a bit of help in the kitchen?
Pasta: Traditional Tetrazzini uses thin spaghetti or fettuccine. I love the way the thinner strands cradle the luscious sauce, but feel free to use whatever pasta floats your boat!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is a key ingredient that gives Tetrazzini its creamy and dreamy texture. I prefer the low-sodium version, as it helps keep the dish from becoming overly salty.
Vegetables: I usually add some sautéed onions and mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Peas can also be tossed in for a pop of color (and a dash of sweetness).
Cheese: Because cheese makes everything better! I like a blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan for a rich, savory topping that gratins beautifully in the oven.
Garlic: Ah, garlic—the undeniable aroma of love in the kitchen! We’ll use it in the garlic bread, but a little added to the Tetrazzini wouldn’t hurt either!
Is Valentine’s Day Chicken Tetrazzini Good for You?
You might be surprised, but this dish can be a bit of a healthier choice!
Chicken: A lean source of protein essential for muscle maintenance, great for feeling full, and aiding weight management.
Mushrooms: Loaded with vitamins and minerals, mushrooms support heart health and good immunity – perfect for chilly winter evenings!
Whole Wheat Pasta: If you switch to whole wheat pasta, you’ll get more fiber, which helps keep your digestion on track and makes you feel satisfied longer.
However, keep in mind that it can be rich in calories due to the creamy soup and cheese, so moderation is key if you’re watching your intake. And don’t get me started on that garlic bread—it does add a bit of indulgence, but it’s all about balance!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (1 rotisserie chicken works well)
– 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium if preferred)
– 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
– 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
– 1/2 cup chopped onions
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For Garlic Bread:
– 1 loaf of Italian or French bread
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
This recipe will serve about 4-6 people, perfect for a cozy dinner!
How to Make Valentine’s Day Chicken Tetrazzini?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sautéed mushrooms, onions, and peas. Stir until well mixed.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the mixture, and stir until combined. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. While it’s baking, let’s prepare the garlic bread. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley.
8. Slice the loaf of bread in half (lengthwise) and spread the garlic butter mixture generously on both pieces.
9. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for the last 10-12 minutes of the Tetrazzini baking time until golden and toasted.
10. Once everything is done, serve your Chicken Tetrazzini hot, next to crispy garlic bread. Enjoy!
Delicious Tips and Serving Suggestions
– For an extra layer of taste, try adding some white wine to the chicken broth—about a half cup before mixing with the pasta. It adds a lovely richness!
– If you want to spice things up a bit, consider adding some red pepper flakes or using pepper jack cheese in your Tetrazzini.
– For a veggie-packed version, mix in steamed broccoli or spinach.
– Pair this with a fresh garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for a complete meal.
I can’t express how thrilled I am for you to try this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe! It combines comfort, flavor, and a sprinkle of love that will make your Valentine’s Day dinner cozy and special. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any of your own twists? What wine did you pair it with? Share your stories, and let’s celebrate good food and great company together! Enjoy!