Hähnchen Brokkoli Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about how this dish has become a staple in many households, thanks to its simplicity and the comforting combination of ingredients. Originating from Italian cuisine, pasta has long been celebrated for its versatility, and when paired with chicken and broccoli, it transforms into a wholesome dinner option that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
People love Hähnchen Brokkoli Pasta not only for its delicious taste but also for its delightful texture. The tender chicken melds beautifully with the crisp-tender broccoli, while the pasta serves as the perfect base to soak up all the flavors. Plus, it’s a convenient one-pot meal that can be whipped up in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparing the Pasta and Broccoli
1. **Boil Water**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
2. **Cook the Pasta**: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. **Add Broccoli**: About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This will blanch the broccoli, keeping it vibrant and slightly crunchy.
4. **Drain and Set Aside**: Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them in a colander and set aside. Make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.
Cooking the Chicken
5. **Heat the Olive Oil**: In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. I love using a non-stick skillet for this recipe to prevent any sticking.
6. **Cook the Chicken**: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You want to ensure there’s no pink in the center.
7. **Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes**: Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. The aroma will be heavenly!
Creating the Sauce
8. **Pour in Chicken Broth**: Carefully pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it. This will help lift all those delicious bits stuck to the pan.
9. **Add Heavy Cream**: Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine everything. The mixture will start to bubble gently.
10. **Incorporate Parmesan Cheese**: Gradually add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly. This should take about 3-5 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
11. **Season the Sauce**: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. I usually find that a little extra pepper adds a nice kick!
Combining Everything
12. **Add Pasta and Broccoli**: Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and broccoli are well coated in the creamy sauce.
13. **Heat Through**: Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
14. **Adjust Consistency**: If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
Serving the Dish
15. **Plate the Pasta**: Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s time to serve! I like to use a large serving bowl or individual plates.
16. **Garnish**: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a little extra Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.
17. **Enjoy**: Dig in and enjoy your delicious Hähnchen Brokkoli Pasta! This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests at a gathering.
Storage Tips
18. **Store Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the pasta cool completely before transferring
Conclusion:
In summary, this Hähnchen Brokkoli Pasta recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to whip up a delicious, nutritious meal that the whole family will love. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor and essential nutrients. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
For serving suggestions, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of richness, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. You can also experiment with variations by swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu, or adding in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to customize it to your taste.
I encourage you to give this Hähnchen Brokkoli Pasta a try and make it your own! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Cooking is all about sharing and enjoying, so let’s connect over this delightful dish! Happy cooking!
Hähnchen Brokkoli Pasta: Ein einfaches und gesundes Rezept für die ganze Familie
Enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta, featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente pasta in a rich Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests!
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon of salt).
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally.
- Two minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot to blanch them.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it bubble gently.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens (3-5 minutes). Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Toss the drained pasta and broccoli into the skillet with the chicken and sauce until well coated.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Serve in a large bowl or individual plates.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Dig in and savor your delicious Chicken Broccoli Pasta!
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
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