Gladdy'S Chicken Tetrazzini
Creamy chicken tetrazzini combines tender shredded chicken, mushrooms, and sharp cheddar cheese with vermicelli for a comforting, savory dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken under cold running water and place it in a large kettle almost covered with water.
- Add celery tops, parsley sprigs, carrots, sliced onion, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves to the kettle.
- Bring the water to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to simmer for one hour or until the chicken is very tender.
- Cool the chicken in the stock, then remove it and strip the meat from the bones.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding bones and skin, yielding about six cups of chicken.
- Strain the chicken from the stock and refrigerate until cold to remove fat.
- Cook vermicelli according to package instructions; drain.
- Combine shredded chicken, cooked vermicelli, sliced mushrooms, and shredded cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with additional cheese if desired.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting rotisserie chicken for the boiled chicken, which can save time. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the dish, and you can swap out the vermicelli for penne or fusilli if desired. This dish can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Tetrazzini with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Delicious Broccoli Soup for a comforting dinner. For a festive touch, consider topping it with fresh parsley or chives before serving to add color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Tetrazzini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gladdy'S Chicken Tetrazzini contains roughly 603 calories, with 11g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (290% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (77% of the Daily Value), and potassium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1631mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you're short on time, cooking it directly from frozen will require additional boiling time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used as substitutes for cheddar. For a sharper flavor, try using Gruyère or a blend of cheeses. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).