Taste The Nostalgia: Luby’s Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe – A Timeless Classic Reimagined

Luby’s chicken tetrazzini is a beloved classic dish that combines the flavors of chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce. Originating from the Italian dish “Pollo alla Tetrazzini,” Luby’s has made this recipe their own, and it has become a favorite among many. With its rich and flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Unraveling the History of Luby’s Chicken Tetrazzini

The origins of Luby’s chicken tetrazzini can be traced back to the early 20th century. The dish was created by chef Victor Hirtzler, who worked at the Hotel St. Francis in San Francisco. Hirtzler named the dish after Luisa Tetrazzini, a renowned Italian opera singer known for her powerful voice.

In the 1940s, Luby’s Cafeterias, a Texas-based restaurant chain, added chicken tetrazzini to their menu. Luby’s version of the dish quickly gained popularity, becoming a signature item on their menu. Today, Luby’s chicken tetrazzini is enjoyed by people all over the United States.

Mastering the Art of Luby’s Chicken Tetrazzini

While Luby’s chicken tetrazzini may seem like a complex dish, it is surprisingly easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create this delicious dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

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

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Preparing the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
• Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Making the Sauce:

• Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the onion and cook until softened.
• Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
• Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, or until the mixture is golden brown.
• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.

3. Combining the Ingredients:

• Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce.
• Stir to combine.

4. Baking the Tetrazzini:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Pour the chicken tetrazzini mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of butter over the top.
• Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

5. Serving the Dish:

• Let the chicken tetrazzini cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.

Tips for a Perfect Luby’s Chicken Tetrazzini:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Cook the chicken breast thoroughly before shredding it.
• Use a good quality pasta that holds its shape well.
• Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
• Make sure the sauce is thick enough before adding the chicken and pasta.
• Bake the chicken tetrazzini until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
• Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations on the Classic Luby’s Chicken Tetrazzini:

• Add a variety of vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli.
• Use different types of pasta, such as penne, shells, or rotini.
• Add a cup of cooked peas or corn to the dish for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Top the dish with a crispy breadcrumb topping for a crunchy texture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère, Gouda, or fontina.

The Secret to Luby’s Chicken Tetrazzini’s Creamy Sauce:

The key to Luby’s chicken tetrazzini‘s creamy sauce is the roux. A roux is a mixture of flour and butter that is used to thicken sauces. By cooking the flour and butter together, you create a smooth and flavorful base for the sauce. The chicken broth and heavy cream add richness and depth of flavor, while the Parmesan cheese adds a touch of nuttiness.

A Dish That Stands the Test of Time:

Luby’s chicken tetrazzini is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta make it a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you are a fan of Luby’s or simply looking for a delicious chicken tetrazzini recipe, this recipe is sure to please.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the history of Luby’s chicken tetrazzini?

• Luby’s chicken tetrazzini was created by chef Victor Hirtzler in the early 20th century and named after the Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini. Luby’s Cafeterias added the dish to their menu in the 1940s, and it quickly became a signature item.

2. What are the key ingredients in Luby’s chicken tetrazzini?

• The key ingredients in Luby’s chicken tetrazzini include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, linguine pasta, onion, garlic, flour, butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.

3. How do I make the creamy sauce for Luby’s chicken tetrazzini?

• To make the creamy sauce, melt butter in a saucepan and add flour. Cook the mixture until golden brown, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. What are some variations on the classic Luby‘s chicken tetrazzini?

• You can add vegetables, different types of pasta, or cheese to the dish. You can also top the dish with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

5. What is the secret to Luby’s chicken tetrazzini‘s creamy sauce?

• The secret to Luby’s chicken tetrazzini’s creamy sauce is the roux, a mixture of flour and butter that is cooked together to create a smooth and flavorful base for the sauce.