Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe With A Twist: Unleash The Flavor Explosion With Rotel!

Chicken tetrazzini is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta. This recipe adds a spicy twist to the traditional dish by incorporating Rotel, a canned diced tomato and green chili blend. The result is a flavorful and comforting meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 8 ounces linguine pasta, cooked al dente
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup Rotel, undrained
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Cook the chicken breasts until fully cooked. You can do this by boiling, baking, or grilling them. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

2. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic and cook until softened.

4. Make the Sauce:

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until the sauce thickens. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Rotel. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine the Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pasta, and sautéed vegetables. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir until well combined.

6. Bake the Dish:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Pour the chicken tetrazzini mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve:

Serve the chicken tetrazzini hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of chicken broth and white wine to make the sauce.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick of spice.
• If you don’t have Rotel on hand, you can substitute a can of diced tomatoes and a can of diced green chilies.
• Serve the chicken tetrazzini with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Variations:

• Add a cup of cooked peas or corn to the sauce for a colorful and flavorful twist.
• Use different types of pasta, such as penne, macaroni, or spaghetti.
• Top the chicken tetrazzini with a crispy breadcrumb topping before baking.
• Add a layer of cooked spinach or kale to the dish for a healthy boost.

“The Perfect Ending:”

Chicken tetrazzini with Rotel is a delightful dish that combines the classic flavors of chicken tetrazzini with a spicy kick. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting weeknight meal.

What You Need to Learn

• Can I make chicken tetrazzini ahead of time?

Yes, you can make chicken tetrazzini ahead of time and bake it later. Simply prepare the dish as directed, but do not bake it. Cover the dish and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Can I freeze chicken tetrazzini?

Yes, you can freeze chicken tetrazzini. Prepare the dish as directed, but do not bake it. Cover the dish tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• What can I serve with chicken tetrazzini?

Chicken tetrazzini is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include garlic bread, a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.