Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Without Sour Cream: A Classic Dish With A Twist

Chicken tetrazzini is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. Its rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta make it a comforting and satisfying meal. However, traditional recipes often call for sour cream, which can be too heavy or acidic for some palates. This recipe offers an alternative, using a combination of milk and cream cheese to create a velvety sauce without the tang of sour cream.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta, cooked al dente
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with the cooked pasta. Set aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

• Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
• Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, or until golden brown.
• Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the Cream Cheese:

• Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine the Sauce and Chicken:

• Pour the sauce over the chicken and pasta mixture and stir to combine.

5. Bake:

• Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Tetrazzini:

• For the best texture, use a combination of white and dark meat chicken.
• Cook the pasta al dente, or slightly firm, to prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
• For a richer flavor, use a combination of whole milk and half-and-half.
• If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Variations:

• Seafood Tetrazzini: Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp, lobster, or crab.
• Vegetarian Tetrazzini: Use roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, mushrooms, and bell peppers, instead of chicken.
• Gluten-Free Tetrazzini: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
• Baked Tetrazzini Cups: Pour the tetrazzini mixture into individual ramekins and bake until golden brown.

The Perfect Pairing:

• Wine Pairing: Serve chicken tetrazzini with a light-bodied white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Side Dish Pairing: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, are great accompaniments to chicken tetrazzini.

A Dish for Every Occasion:

• Comfort Food: Chicken tetrazzini is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in.
• Special Occasions: This dish is elegant enough to serve at a special occasion dinner.
• Potlucks and Parties: Chicken tetrazzini is a popular dish to bring to potlucks and parties.
• Meal Prep: Make a large batch of chicken tetrazzini on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.

“No Sour Cream, No Problem!”

This chicken tetrazzini recipe without sour cream is a testament to the fact that you can create a delicious and satisfying meal without using traditional ingredients. The combination of milk and cream cheese creates a rich and creamy sauce that is sure to please everyone at the table. So, next time you’re craving chicken tetrazzini, give this recipe a try and experience the flavor for yourself.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Some popular choices include spaghetti, penne, and macaroni.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make chicken tetrazzini ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Simply prepare the dish according to the instructions and then let it cool completely. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

3. Can I freeze chicken tetrazzini?

Yes, you can freeze chicken tetrazzini. Prepare the dish according to the instructions and then let it cool completely. Cover and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.