Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious? Look no further than our "Stock Your Freezer Chicken Tetrazzini"! This creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying casserole is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a smart choice for meal prep. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a total cooking time of 50 minutes, you can whip up a hearty meal that serves eight—perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it a go-to recipe for those times when you need a quick dinner solution. Dive into this Italian classic and discover how simple it is to create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti and diced chicken. Ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly distributed.
- Sauté the sliced mushrooms in a skillet with a small amount of butter or olive oil until they are tender and have released their moisture, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Add the sautéed mushrooms to the pasta and chicken mixture, then pour the creamy sauce over the top. Gently stir to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the tetrazzini rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
- For freezer meal preparation, allow the dish to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Use al dente spaghetti for the best texture. It will hold up better during baking and prevent the dish from becoming mushy.
- Chicken Choices: Rotisserie chicken works wonders in this recipe. It saves time and adds a wonderful flavor to the dish.
- Sautéing Mushrooms: Don't skip the sautéing step! This enhances the mushrooms' flavor and prevents excess moisture from making your casserole soggy.
- Creamy Sauce: For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the sauce mixture.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A mix of mozzarella and cheddar can add a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
- Freezer Friendly: When preparing for the freezer, ensure the dish is completely cool before wrapping it tightly. This helps maintain its texture and flavor when reheating.
- Reheating Tips: When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge for even cooking. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some frozen peas or spinach for added nutrition and color. Just mix them in with the pasta and chicken before adding the sauce.With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Chicken Tetrazzini that’s not only delicious but also a hit with family and friends!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
