Name: Easy Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300 g Penne, Farfalle, or Fusilli pasta; Salt, for pasta water; 400 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika powder (optional); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 250 g fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chicken broth (for deglazing); 250 ml chicken broth (for sauce base); 200 ml heavy cream (35% fat content recommended); 100 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional); 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Pinch of nutmeg; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish); Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta is, for many, the quintessential answer to those busy weeknights when you crave something truly satisfying, wholesome, and incredibly comforting. I believe few dishes manage to strike such a perfect balance between robust flavors and effortless preparation quite like this one. It’s a modern classic that has gracefully found its way into countless kitchens, becoming a beloved staple not just for its undeniable taste but also for its heartwarming appeal.

There’s a certain magic in the way tender, savory chicken, vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly al dente pasta come together, all enrobed in a rich, velvety sauce. While perhaps not steeped in centuries of history like some traditional Italian dishes, this combination embodies the spirit of practical, delicious home cooking, making it an instant hit with both adults and children alike. People adore this dish because it delivers on every front: a symphony of textures, a burst of familiar, comforting flavors, and the incredible convenience of creating a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Why We Love Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta

It’s truly a dish that feels like a warm embrace, turning simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Get ready to discover why this delightful pasta creation is destined to become a firm favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:
- 400g (approximately 14 oz) Penne, Farfalle, or Fusilli pasta
- Salt, for pasta water (about 1-2 tablespoons per 4 liters/quarts of water)
For the Chicken:
- 500g (approximately 1.1 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Broccoli:
- 500g (approximately 1.1 lbs) fresh broccoli florets (from about 1 large head), cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
- 500ml (approximately 2 cups) chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 250ml (approximately 1 cup) heavy cream (35% fat content recommended for richness)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for a slightly thicker sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- Pinch of nutmeg (freshly grated is best)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

Equipment You’ll Need:

Large pot for cooking pasta and broccoli
Large skillet or Dutch oven for cooking chicken and sauce
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Spatula or wooden spoon
Colander
Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended for chicken)

Zubereitung des Hähnchens (Preparing the Chicken):

Prepare the Chicken: First, let’s get our chicken ready. Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice, golden-brown sear. Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking, so try to make them as similar in size as possible.
Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, a generous pinch of salt, and a good grind of black pepper. Mix everything well with your hands or a spoon, ensuring every piece of chicken is nicely coated with the seasoning. The paprika adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a beautiful color.
Sear the Chicken: Heat your large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot – you can test by flicking a few drops of water onto the pan; if they sizzle and evaporate, it’s ready – add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in two batches. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing that delicious golden crust.
Cook to Golden Perfection: Cook the chicken for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until it’s beautifully golden-brown and cooked through. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) if using a meat thermometer. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a clean plate and set it aside. It will continue to cook slightly with residual heat, keeping it extra juicy. We’ll add it back to the sauce later.

Kochen der Pasta und des Brokkolis (Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli):

Bring Water to a Boil: Fill your largest pot with plenty of water – I usually fill it about three-quarters full. Add a generous amount of salt; the water should taste like the sea. This is the only chance you have to season the pasta itself from the inside out. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
Cook the Pasta: Once the water is vigorously boiling, add your chosen pasta (penne, farfalle, or fusilli work wonderfully for this dish, as their shapes hold the creamy sauce well). Stir immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” – it should be tender but still have a slight bite in the center. Don’t overcook it, as it will continue to soften slightly when combined with the hot sauce.
Prepare the Broccoli: While the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the broccoli. Make sure your broccoli florets are cut into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they cook quickly and evenly.
Blanch the Broccoli: About 3-4 minutes before the pasta is done, add the fresh broccoli florets directly into the boiling pasta water. This is an excellent trick to save on dishes and ensure the broccoli is perfectly tender-crisp. Blanch the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes, or until it’s vibrant green and tender but still has a slight crunch. We don’t want mushy broccoli in our Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta!
Drain Pasta and Broccoli: Carefully drain the pasta and broccoli together using a colander. Important: Reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining! This “liquid gold” is incredibly useful for adjusting the consistency of our creamy sauce later. Set the drained pasta and broccoli aside.

Zubereitung der Cremigen Soße (Preparing the Creamy Sauce):

Sauté Aromatics: In the same large skillet or Dutch oven you used for the chicken (no need to clean it, those browned bits are flavor!), melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Deglaze (Optional, but Recommended): If you opted to use dry white wine, now is the time to add it. Pour in 1/4 cup of white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan. This process, called deglazing, adds incredible depth of flavor to the sauce. Let the wine simmer and reduce for about 1-2 minutes until most of the alcohol has evaporated. If you’re not using wine, you can skip this step or use a splash of chicken broth instead.
Thicken with Flour (Optional): If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the cooked onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to cook out its raw taste. This creates a roux, which will help thicken our sauce beautifully. If you skip this, your sauce will still be delicious but perhaps a touch thinner.
Build the Base: Gradually whisk in the 500ml of chicken broth. Make sure to whisk vigorously to prevent any lumps, especially if you added flour. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Add the Cream and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low, then slowly pour in the 250ml of heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Add the dried Italian herbs and a tiny pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Nutmeg is a secret ingredient that enhances the creaminess and brings out the flavors beautifully, but a little goes a long way! Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste the sauce at this stage and adjust seasoning as needed. This is your chance to get it just right before adding the cheese.
Melt in the Parmesan: Remove the skillet from the heat (or keep it on very low) and stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating a luxurious, velvety texture. Using freshly grated Parmesan makes a huge difference in flavor and meltability compared to pre-shredded varieties.

Zusammenfügen der Cremigen Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta (Assembling the Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta):

Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken pieces, drained pasta, and blanched broccoli to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the sauce evenly coats every strand of pasta, every piece of chicken, and every floret of broccoli. This is where all the components come together to form our irresistible Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce appears too thick – which can happen as the pasta absorbs some of the liquid – gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water helps to emulsify the sauce, making it even creamier and more cohesive.
Final Seasoning Check: Give the entire dish a final taste. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. Sometimes, adding the pasta and chicken can dilute the seasoning slightly, so this step is important for perfect flavor balance. You might also want to add another sprinkle of Parmesan directly into the dish for an extra cheesy boost.

Tipps für die Perfekte Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta (Tips for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta):

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Always aim for al dente. The pasta will continue to cook and absorb sauce when mixed, so slightly undercooking it initially prevents it from becoming mushy. This is a golden rule for any pasta dish, especially one as rich as our Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta.
Freshly Grated Cheese is Key: While convenient, pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into a creamy sauce. For the best texture and flavor, always opt for a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself. The difference is truly remarkable.
Reserved Pasta Water: This starchy water is your secret weapon! It helps to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick and contributes to a beautiful, emulsified texture that clings perfectly to the pasta. Never pour it all down the drain immediately.
Chicken Variations: Feel free to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for an even juicier and more flavorful result. If you’re short on time, you could even use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, added in at the very end.
Add Some Heat: For those who enjoy a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic or stirred in at the end can elevate the flavor profile of this Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta wonderfully.
Vegetable Swaps: While broccoli is classic, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Consider adding other quick-cooking vegetables like spinach (wilt it in with the sauce at the end), bell peppers (sauté them with the onion), or even mushrooms.
Serving Temperature: This dish is best served immediately, straight from the pan, while the pasta is hot and the sauce is lusciously creamy.

Serviervorschläge (Serving Suggestions):

Once your Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta is perfectly mixed and seasoned, it’s ready to be served! Divide generous portions among serving bowls. I love to garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and another generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. If you enjoy a bit of warmth, a pinch of red pepper flakes on top is also a fantastic addition. This hearty and satisfying pasta dish stands well on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that incredible creamy sauce. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

So, here we are, at the delightful culmination of our culinary journey. I truly believe that this recipe for Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience, a warm hug in a bowl, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will earn you rave reviews from everyone at your table. We’ve explored how effortlessly delicious it is, how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special, and why it’s poised to become a staple in your kitchen. From the tender, perfectly cooked chicken to the vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli, all enveloped in that velvety, rich cream sauce, every single bite is a testament to comfort food done right. It’s the kind of dish that makes you slow down, savor each forkful, and appreciate the simple joys of a homemade meal.

What makes this particular pasta dish a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the incredible flavor, it’s the sheer versatility and ease. It’s designed to fit seamlessly into even the busiest of weeknight schedules, promising a gourmet-quality meal without the fuss. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing that in under 30 minutes, you can have a steaming bowl of this exquisite pasta ready to revive your spirits. It’s nourishing, satisfying, and boasts a wonderful balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it a complete meal on its own. I find immense satisfaction in knowing I can whip up something so comforting and delicious with minimal effort, and I want you to feel that same culinary triumph.

Now, let’s talk about taking this already fantastic dish to the next level with some serving suggestions and variations. While it shines brightly on its own, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast. A basket of warm, crusty garlic bread is also an absolute non-negotiable for me – perfect for soaking up every last drop of that glorious cream sauce. For those who love a bit more cheese, consider stirring in some grated Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar along with the Parmesan for an extra layer of nutty, tangy flavor. You could also experiment with different pasta shapes; penne, farfalle, or even tagliatelle would work wonderfully, each offering a slightly different texture to cling to the sauce.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe truly your own! If you’re looking to boost the vegetable content, feel free to toss in some sautéed mushrooms, thinly sliced bell peppers, or a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking until it wilts. For a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce can add a delightful kick. If you’re not a fan of chicken, cooked shrimp or even a plant-based protein like pan-fried tofu could be a fantastic substitute, though you might need to adjust cooking times accordingly. For a lighter version, you could swap some of the heavy cream for milk or a dairy-free alternative, and perhaps use whole wheat pasta. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; it invites you to play, experiment, and customize it to your heart’s content, ensuring it perfectly suits your taste buds and dietary preferences.

Your Kitchen, Your Masterpiece!

I genuinely hope that reading through this has inspired you to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible recipe a try. There’s something incredibly rewarding about creating a delicious meal from scratch, and I promise you, the joy of tasting this homemade pasta dish will be well worth the minimal effort. Once you’ve cooked up your own batch of this delightful Cremige Haehnchen Brokkoli Pasta, please don’t keep it a secret! I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you add your own twist? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments online! Tag me on social media or leave a comment below – your culinary adventures inspire me, and I can’t wait to see your wonderful creations. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!

Häufig gestellte Fragen (FAQs)

Kann ich die Cremige Hähnchen Brokkoli Pasta im Voraus zubereiten?

Ja, absolut! Das ist einer der großen Vorteile dieses Gerichts. Sie können die Hähnchen-Brokkoli-Mischung und die Sauce separat zubereiten und im Kühlschrank aufbewahren. Kochen Sie die Pasta frisch, kurz bevor Sie servieren möchten. Wenn Sie alles komplett vorbereiten, neigt die Pasta dazu, die Sauce aufzusaugen und kann etwas matschig werden. Am besten ist es, die Sauce und das Huhn/Brokkoli zu erwärmen und dann die frisch gekochte, al dente Pasta direkt vor dem Servieren unterzuheben. So bleibt die Textur der Pasta perfekt und die Sauce herrlich cremig.

Wie lange kann ich Reste aufbewahren und wie wärme ich sie am besten auf?

Reste dieser köstlichen Pasta können in einem luftdichten Behälter für 3-4 Tage im Kühlschrank aufbewahrt werden. Beim Aufwärmen empfehle ich, einen Schuss Milch, Sahne oder sogar Hühnerbrühe hinzuzufügen, um die Sauce wieder zu beleben, da die Pasta beim Abkühlen oft viel Flüssigkeit aufsaugt. Erwärmen Sie die Reste langsam in einem Topf bei mittlerer Hitze oder in der Mikrowelle, bis sie durchgewärmt sind, dabei gelegentlich umrühren. So wird sie fast so gut wie frisch zubereitet schmecken!

Kann ich gefrorenen Brokkoli für dieses Rezept verwenden?

Ja, gefrorener Brokkoli ist eine hervorragende und praktische Alternative zu frischem. Sie müssen ihn nicht einmal vorher auftauen! Fügen Sie den gefrorenen Brokkoli einfach direkt in die Pfanne, wenn die Hähnchen fast fertig sind, oder wenn die Sauce köchelt. Da gefrorener Brokkoli bereits blanchiert ist, benötigt er nur wenige Minuten, um gar zu werden und seine lebendige Farbe zu entwickeln. Achten Sie darauf, ihn nicht zu überkochen, damit er seine angenehme Bissfestigkeit behält.

Welche Nudelsorte eignet sich am besten für diese cremige Sauce?

Für eine cremige Sauce wie diese eignen sich Nudelsorten mit einer großen Oberfläche oder Rillen besonders gut, da sie die Sauce wunderbar aufnehmen und halten können. Penne, Rigatoni, Farfalle (Schmetterlingsnudeln), Orecchiette oder sogar breite Bandnudeln wie Fettuccine oder Tagliatelle sind ausgezeichnete Optionen. Persönlich liebe ich Penne oder Rigatoni, da sie durch ihre Form kleine “Taschen” für die Sauce bilden, die jeden Bissen zu einem Genuss machen.

Wie kann ich das Gericht würziger oder leichter gestalten?

Um es würziger zu gestalten, können Sie während des Kochens der Sauce eine Prise rote Pfefferflocken hinzufügen oder einen Hauch Cayennepfeffer einrühren. Für eine schärfere Note können Sie auch frisch gehackte Chilischoten zusammen mit dem Knoblauch anbraten. Wenn Sie eine leichtere Version wünschen, können Sie einen Teil der Sahne durch fettarme Milch oder sogar Hühnerbrühe ersetzen. Sie können auch mehr Brokkoli oder andere grüne Gemüsesorten hinzufügen, um das Gericht frischer und leichter zu machen, ohne an Geschmack einzubüßen. Ein Spritzer Zitronensaft am Ende kann ebenfalls eine schöne Frische verleihen.

Ist die Cremige Hähnchen Brokkoli Pasta auch für Kinder geeignet?

Absolut! Dieses Gericht ist oft ein großer Hit bei Kindern, da es cremig ist und in der Regel nicht zu würzig. Sie können die Gewürze anpassen, um sie noch milder zu machen, und kleinere Nudelformen wie Ditalini oder Orecchiette verwenden, die für kleine Hände und Münder leichter zu essen sind. Der Brokkoli ist eine fantastische Möglichkeit, Gemüse in ihre Ernährung zu integrieren, und die Hähnchenbrust liefert wertvolles Protein. Es ist ein ausgewogenes und schmackhaftes Gericht, das die ganze Familie genießen kann.