Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf: Frischkäse & Mozzarella Traum

Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella – what a truly magnificent and inviting culinary experience this dish promises to be! As someone who cherishes the heartwarming simplicity and profound satisfaction of home-cooked meals, I can attest that few dishes bring as much joy and comfort to the table as a perfectly crafted casserole. This particular recipe is a delightful homage to the enduring appeal of the “Auflauf,” a cherished German culinary tradition where humble ingredients are transformed into a generous, communal feast.

Historically, auflaufs, or casseroles, have been celebrated across cultures for their practicality, their ability to nourish a family bountifully, and their wonderful versatility, evolving over time to embrace a myriad of delicious fillings. Our rendition respectfully upholds this classic concept, artfully combining tender, succulent chicken pieces and vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli florets within a luxuriously creamy sauce that is utterly irresistible. However, what truly elevates this dish to an extraordinary level is the harmonious marriage of two beloved cheeses: the delightfully tangy and smooth Frischkäse (cream cheese), which imparts an incredible depth of richness, and the wonderfully bubbly, stretching Mozzarella, guaranteeing that ultimate, comforting cheese pull everyone adores.

People genuinely adore this casserole not only for its exceptional taste and incredibly comforting texture but also for its remarkable ease of preparation and adaptability. It stands as the quintessential choice for a hearty family dinner, an effortlessly elegant meal for entertaining friends, or even a convenient and satisfying option for your weekly meal prep. If you are searching for a truly memorable and fuss-free culinary delight that combines wholesome ingredients with an explosion of cheesy, savory goodness, then this Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella is precisely the culinary adventure your kitchen has been waiting for. I wholeheartedly invite you to experience the magic of this splendid dish!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Broccoli:
  • 1 large head of broccoli (approximately 500-600g), cut into small, bite-sized florets
  • 2 liters of water, for blanching
  • 1 tablespoon salt, for blanching water
  • A large bowl of ice water, for shock blanching
• For the Chicken:
  • 600g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Creamy Frischkäse-Mozzarella Sauce:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 500ml (2 cups) chicken broth, low sodium
  • 200g (7 oz) Frischkäse (full-fat cream cheese), at room temperature
  • 150ml (⅔ cup) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, but adds depth)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 200g (7 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided (half for the sauce, half for topping)
• For the Topping (Optional, but Recommended for Crunch):
  • 50g (½ cup) panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
• Equipment:
  • 9×13 inch (approx. 23×33 cm) baking dish

Prepping for Perfection: Getting Started with Your Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Dish: Before we dive into the cooking, let’s get our oven ready. Preheat your oven to a comfortable 190°C (375°F). While the oven is warming up, take your 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it. You can use a little butter or a non-stick cooking spray for this. This small step ensures that our beautiful “Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella” doesn’t stick and comes out easily for serving.
2. Blanch the Broccoli for Vibrant Color and Tender-Crisp Texture: This step is crucial for perfectly cooked broccoli that holds its shape and color in the casserole.
   • Bring a large pot of salted water (use the 1 tablespoon of salt for 2 liters of water) to a rolling boil over high heat.
   • Once the water is vigorously boiling, carefully add the broccoli florets. Cook them for precisely 2-3 minutes. We’re looking for tender-crisp, not mushy. They should still have a slight bite to them. Do not overcook the broccoli at this stage, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
   • While the broccoli is blanching, prepare your ice bath. Fill a large bowl with cold water and plenty of ice cubes.
   • As soon as the 2-3 minutes are up, use a slotted spoon or a fine-mesh strainer to immediately transfer the broccoli from the boiling water into the ice bath. This process, known as shock blanching, instantly stops the cooking and locks in that beautiful, vibrant green color.
   • Let the broccoli sit in the ice bath for about 2 minutes, then drain it thoroughly. You’ll want to pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Set aside.

Preparing the Flavorful Chicken for Your Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf

3. Season and Sauté the Chicken: Our chicken needs to be flavorful and slightly browned before it joins the casserole.
   • In a medium bowl, combine your cubed chicken breast or thighs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the seasonings.
   • Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in two batches to ensure even browning. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning, which diminishes the flavor.
   • Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly golden brown on all sides and mostly cooked through. It doesn’t need to be 100% cooked through at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the oven. The browning is key here, as it develops a wonderful depth of flavor that will permeate our “Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella.”
   • Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. You can leave any delicious browned bits (fond) in the pan; they’ll add extra flavor to our sauce!

Crafting the Creamy Cheese Sauce: The Heart of Our Auflauf

4. Build the Aromatic Base: This is where the magic really begins. Using the same skillet from the chicken, you might have some flavorful fond left – that’s a good thing!
   • Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium.
   • Once the butter has melted, add the finely diced yellow onion. Sauté the onion for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Don’t rush this step; properly softened onions lay a great foundation for flavor.
   • Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
5. Whisk in the Flour for a Roux: Now, we’ll create the roux, which will thicken our sauce beautifully.
   • Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic.
   • Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook and combine with the fat, forming a paste. This cooks out the raw flour taste.
6. Introduce Liquids and Cream Cheese: Time to build that luscious sauce!
   • Gradually pour in the 500ml of chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Start with a small amount, whisk until smooth, then add more. Continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take a few minutes of gentle simmering.
   • Reduce the heat to low. Add the 200g of room temperature Frischkäse (cream cheese) to the sauce. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted and the sauce is wonderfully smooth and creamy. Room temperature cream cheese melts much more easily and creates a silkier sauce.
   • Stir in the 150ml of heavy cream and the 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard (if using). The Dijon mustard subtly enhances the savory notes without making the sauce taste like mustard.
   • Season the sauce generously with ¼ teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Always taste your sauce! This is your opportunity to adjust the seasoning until it’s perfect. Remember, a well-seasoned sauce makes all the difference in a casserole.
   • Finally, stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (about 100g) into the hot sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, making the sauce even richer and cheesier. This is the heart of our “Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella” – a truly divine, velvety sauce.

Assembling the Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf: Layer by Layer Deliciousness

7. Layer the Ingredients in Your Baking Dish: Now for the exciting part – bringing all our components together in the baking dish!
   • First, spread the blanched and dried broccoli florets evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. I like to make sure they’re in a single, even layer so they cook consistently.
   • Next, scatter the cooked chicken pieces evenly over the broccoli. Ensure an even distribution so every serving gets a good mix of chicken and broccoli.
   • Pour the creamy Frischkäse-Mozzarella sauce generously over the chicken and broccoli. Use a spatula to ensure the sauce covers everything thoroughly, nestling into all the nooks and crannies. This sauce will infuse all the ingredients with its rich, cheesy goodness.
   • Finally, sprinkle the remaining 100g of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This layer of cheese will melt into a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
8. Prepare the Optional Crispy Topping: If you love a little crunch with your creamy casserole, this step is for you!
   • In a small bowl, combine the 50g of panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Mix these together until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened.
   • Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the mozzarella cheese layer in the baking dish. This will create a fantastic golden and crispy crust that adds another layer of texture to your “Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella.”

Baking and Serving Your Perfect Casserole: The Grand Finale

9. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Place the assembled casserole into your preheated 190°C (375°F) oven.
   • Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly around the edges, and the top is beautifully golden brown. If you used the breadcrumb topping, it should be delightfully crisp.
   • If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
10. Rest and Serve: Patience is a virtue, especially with casseroles!
    • Once out of the oven, let the “Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella” rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny.
    • Serve hot. This creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, some steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy the comforting warmth and incredible flavors of your homemade casserole!

Tips for the Best Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf:

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: While convenience is great, using fresh broccoli and good quality chicken makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: The key to non-mushy broccoli in a casserole is to undercook it slightly during the blanching stage. Remember, it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Taste Your Sauce: This cannot be emphasized enough. Adjust salt, pepper, and nutmeg as needed. A well-seasoned sauce elevates the entire dish.
• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This makes for a much smoother, lump-free sauce, as it melts into the hot liquid more easily.
• Chicken Thighs for More Flavor: If you prefer a richer, more succulent chicken, feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breast meat. They hold up incredibly well in a casserole.
• Use Good Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella and a good Parmesan (if using for the topping) will melt better and taste superior to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.

Possible Variations to Experiment With:

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to sneak in other veggies! Sliced mushrooms sautéed with the onions, diced bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach (wilted and squeezed dry) would be delicious additions.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the other seasonings.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses! A touch of Gruyere or even some smoked Gouda could add a unique twist to the flavor profile of your “Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella.”
• Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or a touch of rosemary can be added to the chicken seasoning or the sauce for an aromatic boost.
• Add Pasta: For a heartier meal, you could cook about 200g of short pasta (like penne or rotini) al dente and stir it into the casserole mixture before topping and baking. This transforms it into a delicious “Pasta Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf.”
• Smoked Paprika: For a deeper, smoky flavor profile, swap out the sweet paprika for smoked paprika.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this “Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella” gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to make a slurry before adding). Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my dear fellow food enthusiasts! We’ve journeyed together through the delightful process of creating what I genuinely believe is one of the most comforting and satisfying dishes you can bring to your table. If you’ve been following along, you now hold the key to unlocking a truly magical culinary experience. This isn’t just another casserole; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will undoubtedly become a staple in your home. From the tender, juicy chicken to the vibrant, slightly crisp broccoli, all enveloped in that luxurious, creamy sauce with the irresistible gooeyness of fresh cream cheese and melted mozzarella – every single bite is pure bliss. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug on a chilly evening, the kind that makes everyone at the dinner table smile.

What truly makes this recipe a must-try, in my humble opinion, goes beyond its incredible taste. It’s the beautiful balance it strikes between being incredibly flavorful and surprisingly wholesome. We’re talking about real, nourishing ingredients coming together to create something spectacular without feeling heavy or overly indulgent. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks, and the result is always consistently delicious. Trust me, once you experience the rich, savory notes mingling with the fresh lightness of the broccoli and the ultimate comfort of the melted cheese, you’ll understand why this dish earns its place as a firm favorite. It truly embodies the essence of home cooking – comforting, satisfying, and made with love.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations to Elevate Your Meal

Now, while this dish is absolutely fantastic on its own, a little pairing magic can take your meal to the next level. For a complete and utterly satisfying dinner, I love serving a generous portion of this casserole alongside a simple, fluffy bed of basmati rice or delicate egg noodles. The rice soaks up that incredible creamy sauce beautifully, creating an even more comforting experience. If you’re looking for something lighter, a crisp, fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette makes a wonderful contrast, cutting through the richness perfectly. And for those who simply can’t get enough of that wonderful sauce, a slice of crusty artisan bread, perfect for dipping and mopping up every last bit, is an absolute game-changer. Don’t underestimate the power of a good piece of bread to complete your meal!

But the fun doesn’t stop there! One of the things I adore most about this recipe is its incredible versatility. It’s a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity. Feeling adventurous? Let’s explore some delightful variations:

• Vegetable Power-Up: While broccoli is king here, feel free to introduce other veggies. Sautéed mushrooms, finely diced bell peppers (red and yellow add a lovely color!), or even a handful of fresh spinach wilted into the sauce would be fantastic additions.
• Protein Switch-Up: Not a fan of chicken? Cooked turkey breast or even some savory ham cubes could work wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, you could experiment with chickpeas or a mix of roasted root vegetables.
• Cheese Lovers Unite: While Frischkäse and Mozzarella are the stars, don’t hesitate to experiment with other cheeses. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra salty kick, or even a layer of smoked Gouda for a deeper flavor profile, could be incredible.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of red pepper flakes can add a subtle warmth and depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, either dried in the sauce or fresh as a garnish, also bring a beautiful aromatic touch.
• Crunch Factor: For an added textural delight, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed croutons mixed with a little melted butter over the top before the final baking stage. The golden, crispy topping provides a wonderful contrast to the creamy interior.

These are just a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own!

Your Turn!

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella a try in your kitchen. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth, comfort, and immense satisfaction. Imagine the aroma filling your home as it bakes, the anticipation building, and then that first glorious bite. It’s truly something special.

Once you’ve whipped up this delightful creation, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you venture into some of the variations I suggested? What was your favorite part? Share your thoughts, your successes, and even your creative tweaks in the comments below. Better yet, snap a photo of your magnificent creation and share it on social media, tagging us or using a relevant hashtag so I can see your culinary masterpiece! Your feedback and shared experiences are what truly make this community vibrant and inspiring for everyone. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I prepare this Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is fantastic for meal prepping. You can assemble the entire dish, minus the final baking, up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit out at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven directly from the fridge.

How do I store leftovers and how long do they last?

Leftovers are a true treasure with this dish! Once the casserole has cooled completely, transfer any remaining portions into airtight containers. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or in a conventional oven (covered with foil to prevent drying out) until heated through. Sometimes, I even add a splash of milk or broth when reheating in the oven to maintain its creaminess!

Can I freeze this Brokkoli Hahnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella?

Yes, you certainly can! This casserole freezes exceptionally well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. You have two options: you can freeze it unbaked (assembled) or baked. If freezing unbaked, cover it tightly with foil and then plastic wrap. If freezing baked, let it cool completely first. Either way, it will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed (you might need a little extra baking time). You can also bake it from frozen, but cover it tightly with foil for the first 45-60 minutes to ensure it heats through evenly before uncovering for the final browning.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Definitely! Using frozen broccoli is a convenient and perfectly acceptable alternative to fresh. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand; you can add it directly to the mixture. Just keep in mind that frozen broccoli tends to release a bit more moisture as it cooks, so ensure your sauce is robust enough to handle it, or you can even briefly blanch the frozen florets in boiling water for a minute or two and drain them very well before adding them to reduce excess water.

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

I find that boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work wonderfully in this recipe. Chicken breasts tend to be leaner and cook quickly, while chicken thighs offer a bit more flavor and stay incredibly moist. Whichever you choose, just ensure it’s cooked through and diced or shredded before adding it to the casserole. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is also a fantastic shortcut to save time and add great flavor!

Brokkoli Hähnchen Auflauf Mit Frischkase Und Mozzarella

A truly magnificent and inviting culinary experience, this dish is a delightful homage to the enduring appeal of the ‘Auflauf.’ It artfully combines tender, succulent chicken pieces and vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli florets within a luxuriously creamy sauce, elevated by the harmonious marriage of tangy Frischkäse (cream cheese) and wonderfully bubbly, stretching Mozzarella.

Prep Time
30 Minutes

Cook Time
1 Hours

Total Time
30 Minutes

Servings
8 servings

Ingredients

• 500g Chicken breast, diced
• 300g Broccoli, small florets
• 200g Cream cheese
• 150g Shredded mozzarella
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Olive oil or butter
• ½ cup Chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 tsp Mustard (optional)
• 1 tsp Dried thyme or Italian herbs

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Blanch 300g broccoli florets in salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking, then drain and pat dry.
2. Step 2
   Season 500g diced chicken breast with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tsp olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned and mostly cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Step 3
   In the same skillet, combine 200g cream cheese, ½ cup chicken broth, 1 tsp mustard (optional), 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Heat gently over low heat, stirring continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in half of the 150g shredded mozzarella until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
4. Step 4
   Spread the blanched broccoli evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Scatter the cooked chicken pieces over the broccoli. Pour the creamy Frischkäse-Mozzarella sauce generously over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring it covers everything thoroughly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Step 5
   Place the assembled casserole into your preheated oven. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly around the edges, and the top is beautifully golden brown. If the the top browns too quickly, you can loosely tent with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
6. Step 6
   Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth and incredible flavors of your homemade casserole!

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.